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Cessna Caravan vs Cessna Grand Caravan Ex vs Cessna Skycourier

The Cessna Caravan (208) is the baseline single‑engine utility turboprop, typically used for short‑to‑medium regional routes and rugged, low‑infrastructure operations; depending on fit it commonly carries about 9–14 passengers and offers roughly 900–1,200 nautical miles of range. The Cessna Grand Caravan EX (208B) is a stretched, more powerful evolution in the same category, aimed at heavier payloads and hotter‑and‑higher conditions while keeping similar mission flexibility; it is commonly configured for about 9–14 passengers as well, with range generally in the same ballpark (about 900–1,200 nautical miles) depending on payload and reserves. The Cessna SkyCourier (408) moves up a class into a larger twin‑engine utility freighter/commuter designed for higher volume and improved dispatch reliability; in passenger service it typically seats up to about 19, and its range is generally around 900–1,200 nautical miles depending on configuration and payload. Overall, the Caravan family prioritizes simplicity and STOL utility, while the SkyCourier emphasizes more capacity and twin‑engine operational margins.

SpecCessna CaravanCessna Grand Caravan EXCessna SkyCourier
Summary
Cockpit222
DOC / nm$ 3.07$ 3.15
Min Crew112
Total Seats101021
Flight RulesVFRVFRIFR
ManufacturerCessnaCessnaCessna
Aircraft NameCaravanGrand Caravan EXSkyCourier
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASAIn Development
Max Range (nm)1070964900
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.38$ 0.39
Max Cabin Seats91219
OEM VerificationVERIFIEDVERIFIEDUn-Verified
Useful Load (lbs)33053332
Standard Cabin Seats8819
Direct Operating Cost$ 571$ 614
Flight Deck (Base Spec)Garmin G1000 NXiGarmin G1000 NXiGyro / Analog
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)186195200
Base Aircraft Price (USD)$2,355,000$2,695,000$7,375,000
Cabin
Cockpit222
LavatoryNoNoNo
Min Crew112
Cargo DoorYesYesYes
Total Seats101021
Max Cabin Seats91219
Cabin Pressure (psi)Un-PressurizedUn-PressurizedUn-Pressurized
Galley / RefreshmentNoNoNo
Standard Cabin Seats8819
Engine
FADECYesYesYes
ModelPT6A-114APT6A-140PT6A-65SC
TBO (hrs)360040006000
Horsepower6758671100
Flat RatingISA + 31ISA + 24
No. of Engines111
Fuel Capacity (gal)335
Dimensions
Length (ft)37.641.654.9
Wingspan (ft)52.152.172
Cabin Width (ft)5.45.4
Cabin Height (ft)4.54.5
Cabin Length (ft)12.816.8
Overall Height (ft)1515.119.8
Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft)3232