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.
| Spec | Cessna Grand Caravan EX | Cessna SkyCourier |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 3.15 | — |
| Min Crew | 1 | 2 |
| Total Seats | 10 | 21 |
| Flight Rules | VFR | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Cessna | Cessna |
| Aircraft Name | Grand Caravan EX | SkyCourier |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | In Development |
| Max Range (nm) | 964 | 900 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.39 | — |
| Max Cabin Seats | 12 | 19 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 3332 | — |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 19 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 614 | — |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Garmin G1000 NXi | Gyro / Analog |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 195 | 200 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $2,695,000 | $7,375,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Lavatory | No | No |
| Min Crew | 1 | 2 |
| Cargo Door | Yes | Yes |
| Total Seats | 10 | 21 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 12 | 19 |
| Cabin Pressure (psi) | Un-Pressurized | Un-Pressurized |
| Galley / Refreshment | No | No |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 19 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | PT6A-140 | PT6A-65SC |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 | 6000 |
| Horsepower | 867 | 1100 |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 24 | — |
| No. of Engines | 1 | 1 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 335 | — |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 41.6 | 54.9 |
| Wingspan (ft) | 52.1 | 72 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 5.4 | — |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 4.5 | — |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 16.8 | — |
| Overall Height (ft) | 15.1 | 19.8 |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | 32 | — |