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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.

SpecCessna Grand Caravan EXViking DHC-6 Twin Otter
Summary
Cockpit22
DOC / nm$ 3.15$ 5.96
Min Crew11
Total Seats1021
Flight RulesVFRIFR
ManufacturerCessnaViking
Aircraft NameGrand Caravan EXDHC-6 Twin Otter
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)964775
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.39$ 0.31
Max Cabin Seats1219
OEM VerificationVERIFIEDVERIFIED
Useful Load (lbs)33324425
Standard Cabin Seats819
Direct Operating Cost$ 614$ 1,084
Flight Deck (Base Spec)Garmin G1000 NXiHoneywell Primus Apex
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)195182
Base Aircraft Price (USD)$2,695,000 $7,150,000
Cabin
Cockpit22
LavatoryNoNo
Min Crew11
Cargo DoorYesYes
Total Seats1021
Max Cabin Seats1219
Cabin Pressure (psi)Un-PressurizedUn-Pressurized
Galley / RefreshmentNoNo
Standard Cabin Seats819
Engine
FADECYesNo
ModelPT6A-140PT6A-34
TBO (hrs)40004000
Horsepower867620
Flat RatingISA + 24ISA + 27
No. of Engines12
Fuel Capacity (gal)335378
Dimensions
Length (ft)41.651.8
Wingspan (ft)52.165
Cabin Width (ft)5.45.4
Cabin Height (ft)4.55
Cabin Length (ft)16.818.5
Overall Height (ft)15.119.5
Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft)3288
Cabin Volume (cu. ft)384
Cabin Width - Floor (ft)4.4
Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft)35