Cessna Grand Caravan Ex vs Viking Dhc 6 Twin Otter
The Cessna Grand Caravan EX and the Viking DHC-6 Twin Otter are both utility turboprops, but they sit in slightly different categories. The Grand Caravan EX is a single‑engine turboprop aimed at cost‑efficient regional, charter, and cargo operations, typically from improved runways though it can handle some rough-field work. The Twin Otter is a twin‑engine STOL (short takeoff and landing) workhorse designed specifically for demanding environments, with stronger emphasis on remote strips and flexible configurations, including floats and skis. In range, the Grand Caravan EX generally offers longer legs in typical passenger configurations, often around 900–1,200 nautical miles depending on load and reserves, while the Twin Otter is usually shorter, commonly around 700–900 nautical miles, again depending on variant and payload. For passenger capacity, both are in a similar bracket. The Grand Caravan EX is commonly configured for about 9–14 passengers, while the Twin Otter typically seats around 15–19 passengers, with the Twin Otter often carrying more people in high-density commuter layouts.
| Spec | Cessna Grand Caravan EX | Viking DHC-6 Twin Otter |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 3.15 | $ 5.96 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 10 | 21 |
| Flight Rules | VFR | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Cessna | Viking |
| Aircraft Name | Grand Caravan EX | DHC-6 Twin Otter |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 964 | 775 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.39 | $ 0.31 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 12 | 19 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 3332 | 4425 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 19 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 614 | $ 1,084 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Garmin G1000 NXi | Honeywell Primus Apex |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 195 | 182 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $2,695,000 | $7,150,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Lavatory | No | No |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| 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 | No |
| Model | PT6A-140 | PT6A-34 |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 867 | 620 |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 24 | ISA + 27 |
| No. of Engines | 1 | 2 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 335 | 378 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 41.6 | 51.8 |
| Wingspan (ft) | 52.1 | 65 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 5.4 | 5.4 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 4.5 | 5 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 16.8 | 18.5 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 15.1 | 19.5 |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | 32 | 88 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | — | 384 |
| Cabin Width - Floor (ft) | — | 4.4 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | — | 35 |