408 SkyCourier vs Grand Caravan EX
The 408 SkyCourier leads, topping 3 of 7 compared metrics.
Cross-shopping the Cessna / Textron Aviation 408 SkyCourier (introduced 2022) against the Cessna / Textron Aviation Grand Caravan EX (introduced 2013) is a common decision, and the two sit closer on paper than the badges suggest. Both are utility, which makes them natural cross-shopping rivals. The clearest separation between them is cabin capacity, where the 408 SkyCourier carries more passengers. undefined
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408 SkyCourier vs Grand Caravan EX: the key differences
- The Grand Caravan EX delivers 19% more range (408 SkyCourier: 900 nm; Grand Caravan EX: 1,070 nm).
- The 408 SkyCourier delivers 8% more cruise speed (408 SkyCourier: 200 kt; Grand Caravan EX: 185 kt).
- The 408 SkyCourier delivers 36% more passenger capacity (408 SkyCourier: 19 seats; Grand Caravan EX: 14 seats).
- The 408 SkyCourier is the newer design (introduced 2022 versus 2013 for the Grand Caravan EX), a gap of 9 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
- The 408 SkyCourier is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (19,000 lbs versus 8,807 lbs), which typically buys more cabin and payload at the cost of higher trip economics.
- The two differ in powerplant layout: the 408 SkyCourier runs 2 engines against 1 on the Grand Caravan EX — a factor in redundancy, maintenance scope and operating cost.
Which mission suits which aircraft
The Grand Caravan EX is the stronger fit for regional and short-to-medium legs — its 1,070 nm of range removes fuel stops on those legs. The 408 SkyCourier, at 900 nm, is better matched to short-haul and regional hops, where lower trip cost counts for more than outright reach. If most of your flying sits inside the 408 SkyCourier's range, the Grand Caravan EX's extra capability is range you pay to carry but rarely use.
Which should you choose?
Choose the Grand Caravan EX when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the 408 SkyCourier when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the 408 SkyCourier holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
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408 SkyCourier vs Grand Caravan EX: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the 408 SkyCourier or the Grand Caravan EX?
The Grand Caravan EX has the longer published range — 1,070 nm versus 900 nm for the 408 SkyCourier.
Does the 408 SkyCourier or Grand Caravan EX seat more passengers?
The 408 SkyCourier carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 19 seats, compared with 14 on the Grand Caravan EX.
Which is faster, the 408 SkyCourier or the Grand Caravan EX?
The 408 SkyCourier cruises faster, at 200 kt versus 185 kt for the Grand Caravan EX.
Which is newer, the 408 SkyCourier or the Grand Caravan EX?
The 408 SkyCourier is the newer design, introduced in 2022 versus 2013 for the Grand Caravan EX.
Is the 408 SkyCourier or the Grand Caravan EX the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the 408 SkyCourier is the larger aircraft — 19,000 lbs versus 8,807 lbs for the Grand Caravan EX.
Should I buy the 408 SkyCourier or the Grand Caravan EX?
Choose the Grand Caravan EX when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the 408 SkyCourier when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the 408 SkyCourier holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
Still weighing up the 408 SkyCourier vs Grand Caravan EX?
Specs only take you so far. Our advisors give an independent recommendation based on your mission, budget and how you actually fly — and represent your side through to purchase.