AIR.ONE

Cessna Caravan vs Cessna Grand Caravan Ex vs Pilatus Pc 12 Ngx

The Cessna Caravan (typically the 208B) is a rugged, utility-oriented single‑engine turboprop best suited to short-haul regional, cargo, and remote-strip work. It generally offers shorter range than the other two, roughly in the 900–1,200 nautical mile class depending on payload and configuration, and commonly carries about 9 passengers in typical commuter layouts (more seats possible in high-density operations, subject to rules and interior). The Cessna Grand Caravan EX is an upgraded Caravan variant with a more powerful engine and improved hot‑and‑high and climb performance. In practical terms it keeps a similar passenger count—again commonly around 9—but can better sustain payload and performance in demanding conditions. Range is broadly similar to the standard Caravan, often landing in a comparable 900–1,200 nautical mile neighborhood depending on load. The Pilatus PC‑12 NGX sits in a more premium, higher‑performance category, optimized for owner‑operator and executive missions. It usually seats 6–9 passengers in comfort, can carry up to about 9 passengers depending on layout, and typically delivers longer legs, roughly around 1,500–1,800 nautical miles, with faster cruise and a more refined cabin.

SpecCessna CaravanCessna Grand Caravan EXPilatus PC-12 NGX
Summary
Cockpit222
DOC / nm$ 3.07$ 3.15$ 2.78
Min Crew111
Total Seats10108
Flight RulesVFRVFRIFR
ManufacturerCessnaCessnaPilatus
Aircraft NameCaravanGrand Caravan EXPC-12 NGX
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASAFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)10709641803
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.38$ 0.39$ 0.46
Max Cabin Seats9129
OEM VerificationVERIFIEDVERIFIEDVERIFIED
Useful Load (lbs)33053332
Standard Cabin Seats886
Direct Operating Cost$ 571$ 614$ 793
Flight Deck (Base Spec)Garmin G1000 NXiGarmin G1000 NXiHoneywell Primus Apex
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)186195290
Base Aircraft Price (USD)$2,355,000$2,695,000$5,350,000
Cabin
Cockpit222
LavatoryNoNoOptional
Min Crew111
Cargo DoorYesYesYes
Total Seats10108
Max Cabin Seats9129
Cabin Pressure (psi)Un-PressurizedUn-Pressurized5.8
Galley / RefreshmentNoNoNo
Standard Cabin Seats886
Lavatory LocationFWD
SL Cabin Altitude (ft)13100
Engine
FADECYesYesYes
ModelPT6A-114APT6A-140PT6E-67XP
TBO (hrs)360040005000
Horsepower6758671200
Flat RatingISA + 31ISA + 24ISA + 35
No. of Engines111
Fuel Capacity (gal)335
Usable Fuel (gal)402
Dimensions
Length (ft)37.641.647.25
Wingspan (ft)52.152.153.33
Cabin Width (ft)5.45.45
Cabin Height (ft)4.54.54.9
Cabin Length (ft)12.816.816.9
Overall Height (ft)1515.114
Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft)323240
Cabin Width - Floor (ft)4.25