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Cessna Grand Caravan Ex vs Cessna Skycourier vs Viking Dhc 6 Twin Otter"

The Cessna Grand Caravan EX is best described as a single‑engine utility turboprop optimized for lower operating cost and simple logistics, typically carrying about 9 to 14 passengers depending on configuration, with a practical range commonly around 800 to 1,200 nautical miles. The Cessna SkyCourier is a larger, twin‑engine turboprop aimed at higher payload and volume in regional freight and short‑haul passenger work, generally seating up to about 19 passengers, with range typically in the roughly 900 to 1,200 nautical mile class depending on reserves and load. The Viking DHC‑6 Twin Otter is also a twin‑engine utility turboprop but is most associated with rugged STOL operations into very short or unimproved strips and remote environments; it usually seats about 19 passengers and often operates with a practical range around 700 to 900 nautical miles. In broad terms, the Caravan EX prioritizes simplicity and efficiency, the SkyCourier prioritizes capacity and modern twin‑engine utility economics, and the Twin Otter prioritizes extreme field performance and mission flexibility.

SpecCessna Grand Caravan EXCessna SkyCourier
Summary
Cockpit22
DOC / nm$ 3.15
Min Crew12
Total Seats1021
Flight RulesVFRIFR
ManufacturerCessnaCessna
Aircraft NameGrand Caravan EXSkyCourier
CertificationFAA / EASAIn Development
Max Range (nm)964900
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.39
Max Cabin Seats1219
OEM VerificationVERIFIEDUn-Verified
Useful Load (lbs)3332
Standard Cabin Seats819
Direct Operating Cost$ 614
Flight Deck (Base Spec)Garmin G1000 NXiGyro / Analog
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)195200
Base Aircraft Price (USD)$2,695,000$7,375,000
Cabin
Cockpit22
LavatoryNoNo
Min Crew12
Cargo DoorYesYes
Total Seats1021
Max Cabin Seats1219
Cabin Pressure (psi)Un-PressurizedUn-Pressurized
Galley / RefreshmentNoNo
Standard Cabin Seats819
Engine
FADECYesYes
ModelPT6A-140PT6A-65SC
TBO (hrs)40006000
Horsepower8671100
Flat RatingISA + 24
No. of Engines11
Fuel Capacity (gal)335
Dimensions
Length (ft)41.654.9
Wingspan (ft)52.172
Cabin Width (ft)5.4
Cabin Height (ft)4.5
Cabin Length (ft)16.8
Overall Height (ft)15.119.8
Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft)32