Cessna Caravan vs Pilatus Pc 12 Ngx
The Cessna 208B Grand Caravan and the Pilatus PC-12 NGX are both single‑engine turboprops, but they target different levels of capability. The Caravan is best described as a rugged utility aircraft commonly used for short-haul passenger service, cargo, and remote operations, emphasizing simplicity and lower operating costs. The PC‑12 NGX sits in the higher-end “executive/utility” class, pairing bush-capable versatility with faster cruise, greater comfort, and more advanced avionics. On range, the PC‑12 NGX typically offers substantially longer legs, commonly around 1,500–1,800 nautical miles depending on load and reserves, while the Caravan is generally closer to about 800–1,000 nautical miles. That difference is most noticeable on longer point-to-point routes where the PC‑12 can often avoid fuel stops. For passenger capacity, the Caravan usually seats more in standard commuter layouts, commonly up to around 9–14 passengers depending on configuration and regulations, whereas the PC‑12 is typically configured for about 6–9 passengers in more spacious cabins, though higher-density seating is possible.
| Spec | Cessna Caravan | Pilatus PC-12 NGX |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 3.07 | $ 2.78 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 10 | 8 |
| Flight Rules | VFR | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Cessna | Pilatus |
| Aircraft Name | Caravan | PC-12 NGX |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 1070 | 1803 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.38 | $ 0.46 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 9 | 9 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 3305 | — |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 6 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 571 | $ 793 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Garmin G1000 NXi | Honeywell Primus Apex |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 186 | 290 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $2,355,000 | $5,350,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Lavatory | No | Optional |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Cargo Door | Yes | Yes |
| Total Seats | 10 | 8 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 9 | 9 |
| Cabin Pressure (psi) | Un-Pressurized | 5.8 |
| Galley / Refreshment | No | No |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 6 |
| Lavatory Location | — | FWD |
| SL Cabin Altitude (ft) | — | 13100 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | PT6A-114A | PT6E-67XP |
| TBO (hrs) | 3600 | 5000 |
| Horsepower | 675 | 1200 |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 31 | ISA + 35 |
| No. of Engines | 1 | 1 |
| Usable Fuel (gal) | — | 402 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 37.6 | 47.25 |
| Wingspan (ft) | 52.1 | 53.33 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 5.4 | 5 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 4.5 | 4.9 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 12.8 | 16.9 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 15 | 14 |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | 32 | 40 |
| Cabin Width - Floor (ft) | — | 4.25 |