Cessna Grand Caravan Ex vs Daher Kodiak 100 Series Iii vs Pilatus Pc 12 Ngx
The Cessna Grand Caravan EX, Daher Kodiak 100 Series III, and Pilatus PC-12 NGX are all single‑engine turboprops, but they target different mission profiles. In category, the Grand Caravan EX is the utility workhorse with strong emphasis on rugged, high‑cycle regional hauling and flexible cabin/cargo configurations. The Kodiak 100 Series III is also a utility turboprop but is more purpose‑built for short, unimproved strips and high‑performance backcountry/STOL operations. The PC‑12 NGX sits in the more premium “executive utility” class, combining serious load and runway capability with higher speed, refined systems, and a business‑aviation cabin. For range, the PC‑12 NGX generally leads, offering the longest legs for cross‑country missions. The Grand Caravan EX and Kodiak 100 Series III typically provide solid regional range, with the Kodiak often optimized more for field performance and payload flexibility than maximum distance. For passenger capacity, both the Grand Caravan EX and Kodiak commonly seat up to about 9 passengers in typical commuter layouts, while the PC‑12 NGX is usually configured for fewer passengers in executive comfort, though it can be arranged for higher‑density seating depending on interior options.
| Spec | Cessna Grand Caravan EX | Pilatus PC-12 NGX |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 3.15 | $ 2.78 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 10 | 8 |
| Flight Rules | VFR | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Cessna | Pilatus |
| Aircraft Name | Grand Caravan EX | PC-12 NGX |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 964 | 1803 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.39 | $ 0.46 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 12 | 9 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 3332 | — |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 6 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 614 | $ 793 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Garmin G1000 NXi | Honeywell Primus Apex |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 195 | 290 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $2,695,000 | $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 | 12 | 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-140 | PT6E-67XP |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 | 5000 |
| Horsepower | 867 | 1200 |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 24 | ISA + 35 |
| No. of Engines | 1 | 1 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 335 | — |
| Usable Fuel (gal) | — | 402 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 41.6 | 47.25 |
| Wingspan (ft) | 52.1 | 53.33 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 5.4 | 5 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 4.5 | 4.9 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 16.8 | 16.9 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 15.1 | 14 |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | 32 | 40 |
| Cabin Width - Floor (ft) | — | 4.25 |