Cessna Grand Caravan Ex vs Pilatus Pc 12 Ngx
The Cessna Grand Caravan EX and Pilatus PC-12 NGX are both single‑engine turboprops, but they sit in different classes. The Grand Caravan EX is typically positioned as a rugged utility and commuter aircraft optimized for short, unimproved strips and straightforward regional hauling, while the PC‑12 NGX is generally considered a higher‑performance executive and multi‑mission turboprop with a more premium cabin and faster cruise. In range, the PC‑12 NGX usually offers a longer practical reach, making it better suited to longer nonstop legs and higher‑speed regional missions, whereas the Grand Caravan EX is more often used on shorter to medium sectors where payload flexibility and simple operations matter most. Passenger capacity trends the other way: the Grand Caravan EX commonly supports higher-density commuter seating, often up to around 14 passengers depending on configuration, while the PC‑12 NGX is typically configured for fewer passengers in greater comfort, commonly around 6 to 10, although both can be outfitted for cargo, medical, or special-mission roles.
| 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 |