Cessna Caravan vs Cessna 408 SkyCourier

The Cessna 408 SkyCourier (twin-engine utility) and 208 Caravan (single-engine utility) are both Cessna cargo/commuter workhorses — the SkyCourier offers twin-engine redundancy and far greater payload/volume; the Caravan offers single-engine simplicity and lower operating cost.

Live Market Snapshot

Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily

Cessna Caravan

No active listings right now.

Cessna 408 SkyCourier
For sale now
2
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
1
Source marketplaces
1
Model years available
2023–2026

Live data from AeroGurus, aggregated daily across the used-aircraft market. Figures are current asking prices, not appraisals — confirm with a pre-buy inspection.

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Cessna Caravan Cessna 408 SkyCourier
View 72 listings →
Median $2,225,000
Cessna 408 SkyCourier
View 2 listings →
Price Range $1,395,000 – $3,700,000
Category Multi Engine Turboprop
Model Specifications
Seats 14 19
Cruise Speed 175 kts (324 km/h) 210 kts (389 km/h)
Range 1,070 nm (1,982 km) 900 nm (1,667 km)
Max Gross Weight 19,000 lbs (8,618 kg)
Useful Load 3,585 lbs (1,626 kg)
Engines 1 x 2 x

Which Should You Buy: Cessna Caravan or Cessna 408 SkyCourier?

Bottom line: Choose the Caravan for the lowest-cost single-engine utility flying with a vast global fleet. Step up to the SkyCourier when payload, cabin volume and twin-engine redundancy justify the higher acquisition and operating cost.

Pick the Caravan if…

  • Longer range — 1070 nm vs 900 nm.
  • More inventory — 72 listings vs 2.

Pick the 408 SkyCourier if…

  • More seats — 19 vs 14.
  • Faster cruise — 210 kts vs 175 kts.

Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Cessna Caravan or Cessna 408 SkyCourier?
It depends on your mission and budget. The Caravan cruises at 175 kts with 1,070 nm range. The 408 SkyCourier cruises at 210 kts with 900 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna Caravan and Cessna 408 SkyCourier?
Seats: 14 vs 19. Cruise: 175 vs 210 kts. Range: 1070 vs 900 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
Caravan: 14 seats / 3,585 lb useful load. 408 SkyCourier: 19 seats. Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data