Cessna 408 vs De Havilland DHC-6
Safety Record
Absolute counts scale with fleet size — the most-produced types log more events without being less safe. Compare the % fatal.
| NTSB (1982–now) | Cessna 408 | De Havilland DHC-6 |
|---|---|---|
| All events | — | 66 |
| Serious | — | 8 |
| Fatal | — | 20 |
| Fatalities | — | 116 |
| % Fatal | — | 30% |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Cessna 408 | De Havilland DHC-6 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | — | — |
| Category | Multi Engine Turboprop | Multi Engine Turboprop |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 19 | — |
| Horsepower | 1,100 HP | — |
| Cruise Speed | 200 kts (370 km/h) | — |
| Range | 900 nm (1,667 km) | — |
| Service Ceiling | 25,000 ft (7,620 m) | — |
| Max Gross Weight | 17,500 lbs (7,938 kg) | — |
| Useful Load | 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) | — |
| Fuel Capacity | 550.0 gal (2082 L) | — |
| Fuel Burn | 120.0 GPH (454 L/h) | — |
| TBO | 3,500 hrs | — |
| Overhaul Cost | $400,000 | — |
| Annual Fixed | $130,000 | — |
| Hourly Variable | $750 | — |
| Engines | 2 x Turboprop | — |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna 408
Fuel$660/hr
Variable$750/hr
Annual Fixed$130,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$280,000/yr
De Havilland DHC-6
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Cessna 408 or De Havilland DHC-6?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 408 cruises at 200 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 408 and De Havilland DHC-6?
408 engine: PRATT & WHITNEY PT6A-65B (1100 hp).
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
408: about $750/hr variable cost.
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?
408: 19 seats / 6,000 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?
408: 3,500-hour TBO, overhaul ~$400,000.
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