Daher Kodiak 100 Series Iii vs Pilatus Pc 12 Ngx vs Piper M500
The Daher Kodiak 100 Series III is a rugged utility turboprop optimized for short, unimproved strips and lower operating complexity. It typically carries around 8–10 occupants depending on configuration, but its real advantage is flexible cabin and cargo capability rather than maximum speed or luxury. Range is generally in the roughly 1,000–1,200 nautical mile class, varying with load and reserves. The Pilatus PC-12 NGX sits in the larger, higher-end single‑engine turboprop category, aiming at executive travel with strong short-field performance and a very spacious cabin. It commonly accommodates about 6–9 passengers in executive layouts (more in commuter configurations) and offers the longest range of the three, typically around 1,700–1,800 nautical miles. The Piper M500 is a smaller, pressurized personal turboprop focused on owner-pilots and efficient point-to-point travel. It is usually configured for about 5–6 passengers and delivers a midrange capability, commonly around 1,000–1,300 nautical miles, emphasizing speed and comfort over rough-field utility.
| Spec | Pilatus PC-12 NGX | Piper M500 |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 2.78 | $ 3.11 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 8 | 6 |
| Flight Rules | IFR | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Pilatus | Piper |
| Aircraft Name | PC-12 NGX | M500 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 1803 | 1000 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.46 | $ 0.78 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 9 | — |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | VERIFIED |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 6 | 4 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 793 | $ 579 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Honeywell Primus Apex | Garmin G1000 NXi |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 290 | 260 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $5,350,000 | $2,122,600 |
| Useful Load (lbs) | — | 1698 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Lavatory | Optional | No |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Cargo Door | Yes | — |
| Total Seats | 8 | 5 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 9 | — |
| Lavatory Location | FWD | — |
| Cabin Pressure (psi) | 5.8 | 5.5 |
| Galley / Refreshment | No | Refreshment Centre |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 6 | 4 |
| SL Cabin Altitude (ft) | 13100 | 12600 |
| Galley Location | — | MID |
| Max Cabin Altitude (ft) | — | 8244 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | No |
| Model | PT6E-67XP | PT6A-42A |
| TBO (hrs) | 5000 | 3600 |
| Horsepower | 1200 | 500 |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 35 | ISA + 55 |
| No. of Engines | 1 | 1 |
| Usable Fuel (gal) | 402 | — |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | — | 170 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 47.25 | 29.6 |
| Wingspan (ft) | 53.33 | 43.2 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 5 | 4.1 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 4.9 | 4 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 16.9 | 12.3 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 14 | 11.3 |
| Cabin Width - Floor (ft) | 4.25 | — |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | 40 | 20 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | — | 165 |