Cessna 208 Caravan

Single Engine • Cessna • 208 Caravan, 208B Caravan, 208B EX Grand Caravan, 208 Caravan 675, Cessna Caravan Amphibian

$250K – $1.2M
Market price range

Key Specifications

Manufacturer Cessna
Model 208 Caravan
Category Single Engine
Variants 208 Caravan, 208B Caravan, 208B EX Grand Caravan, 208 Caravan 675, Cessna Caravan Amphibian
Production Years 1984 – 2025
Seating 14 seats
Typical TTAF 4,200 hours
Markets United States, Canada, Australia, Germany, India
Price Range $250K – $1.2M

Overview

The Cessna 208 Caravan is a high-wing, single-engine utility aircraft renowned for its exceptional cargo capacity, ruggedness, and versatility. First introduced in 1984, the Caravan has become the world's best-selling utility aircraft, with over 2,000 units produced. Its spacious fuselage, excellent short-field performance, and ability to operate from unprepared surfaces make it ideal for cargo operations, humanitarian missions, and remote access flights. The aircraft is widely used by air taxi operators, cargo services, government agencies, and humanitarian organizations worldwide. Notable operators include FedEx, the U.S. military, and various NGOs in developing regions. The Caravan's popularity stems from its reliability, simple maintenance requirements, large payload capacity (up to 3,800 pounds), and ability to carry 14 passengers or equivalent cargo. The extended fuselage variant (208B EX) introduced in 1986 became the most common configuration. Modern variants feature Garmin glass cockpits, enhanced avionics, and improved engines. The aircraft remains in production today, with continuous refinements to systems and performance capabilities, making it an enduring choice for operators requiring dependable utility aviation.

Technical Specifications

Maximum Speed: 188 knots
Cruise Speed: 165 knots
Range: 1,025 nautical miles
Service Ceiling: 20,000 feet
Engine: Continental IO-550-C (300 horsepower)
Maximum Takeoff Weight: 4,750 pounds
Empty Weight: 2,850 pounds
Payload Capacity: 3,800 pounds
Fuel Capacity: 84-105 gallons