Cessna Caravan vs De Havilland DHC-3 Otter

The DHC-3 Otter and Cessna 208 Caravan are single-engine utility haulers — the Otter is the classic rugged bush hauler (often turbine-converted); the Caravan is the modern, efficient, widely-supported utility turboprop.

Full Specs Comparison

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Spec / Model Cessna Caravan De Havilland DHC-3 Otter
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Median $2,225,000
Price Range $1,395,000 – $3,700,000
Category
Model Specifications
Seats 14
Cruise Speed 175 kts (324 km/h) 120 kts (222 km/h)
Range 1,070 nm (1,982 km) 830 nm (1,537 km)
Max Gross Weight 8,000 lbs (3,629 kg)
Useful Load 3,585 lbs (1,626 kg)
Engines 1 x

Which Should You Buy: Cessna Caravan or De Havilland DHC-3 Otter?

Bottom line: Choose the Caravan for a modern airframe, lower operating cost and a vast global support network. Choose the Otter (especially turbine) for classic bush ruggedness, float capability and big-load character — accepting an older airframe and specialist support. ================================================================ # CROSS-REFS ================================================================ - Boeing/Bücker/Cessna mirrors in those files. Slugs de-havilland-* per prod (tiger-moth/dhc-1-chipmunk/dhc-2-beaver/dhc-3-otter).

Pick the Caravan if…

  • Faster cruise — 175 kts vs 120 kts.
  • Longer range — 1070 nm vs 830 nm.

Pick the DHC-3 Otter if…

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 De Havilland DHC-3 Otter?
It depends on your mission and budget. The Caravan cruises at 175 kts with 1,070 nm range. The DHC-3 Otter cruises at 120 kts with 830 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 De Havilland DHC-3 Otter?
Cruise: 175 vs 120 kts. Range: 1070 vs 830 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. 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