Daher Tbm 960 vs Diamond Da 52 vs Pilatus Pc 12 Ngx
Both the Daher TBM 960 and the Pilatus PC-12 NGX are single‑engine turboprops, but they target different missions. The TBM 960 is best categorized as a high‑performance, owner‑flown or corporate cross‑country aircraft optimized for speed and efficient point‑to‑point travel. The PC‑12 NGX fits more as a versatile utility and business transport, designed to handle a wider mix of roles, including passenger hauling and operations into shorter or less‑improved runways. In range terms, the TBM 960 generally offers a slightly longer maximum range on paper, making it appealing for longer nonstop trips with fewer passengers and baggage. The PC‑12 NGX typically delivers somewhat less maximum range, but it is often chosen for its ability to carry more payload comfortably over practical stage lengths. Passenger capacity is where the PC‑12 NGX clearly leads: it is commonly configured for more seats and more cabin volume, suitable for larger groups and luggage. The TBM 960 usually seats fewer and has a smaller cabin, prioritizing speed and efficiency over space.
| Spec | Daher TBM 960 | Pilatus PC-12 NGX |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 2.25 | $ 2.78 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 6 | 8 |
| Flight Rules | IFR | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Daher TBM | Pilatus |
| Aircraft Name | TBM 960 | PC-12 NGX |
| Aircraft Type | Turbo Prop | — |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 1730 | 1803 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.56 | $ 0.46 |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 2908 | — |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 4 | 6 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 744 | $ 793 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Garmin G3000 | Honeywell Primus Apex |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 330 | 290 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $4,450,000 | $5,350,000 |
| Max Cabin Seats | — | 9 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Lavatory | No | Optional |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 6 | 8 |
| Galley Location | MID | — |
| Cabin Pressure (psi) | 6.2 | 5.8 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 4 | 6 |
| SL Cabin Altitude (ft) | 14390 | 13100 |
| Cargo Door | — | Yes |
| Max Cabin Seats | — | 9 |
| Lavatory Location | — | FWD |
| Galley / Refreshment | — | No |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | TBM 960 | PT6E-67XP |
| TBO (hrs) | 3500 | 5000 |
| Horsepower | 850 | 1200 |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 49 | ISA + 35 |
| No. of Engines | — | 1 |
| Usable Fuel (gal) | — | 402 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 35.3 | 47.25 |
| Wingspan (ft) | 42.1 | 53.33 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 4 | 5 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 4.1 | 4.9 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 13.4 | 16.9 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 123 | — |
| Overall Height (ft) | — | 14 |
| Cabin Width - Floor (ft) | — | 4.25 |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | — | 40 |