Pilatus PC-12 vs Socata TBM 940

The Pilatus PC-12 and Daher TBM (940/960) are the two icons of the single-engine turboprop world — both single Pratt & Whitney PT6 singles, but built for different missions: the PC-12 is the big-cabin, cargo-door utility/family hauler; the TBM is the fast, sleek owner-flown speedster.

Full Specs Comparison

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Spec / Model Pilatus PC-12 Socata TBM 940
Pilatus PC-12
View 18 listings →
Median $4,200,000
Socata TBM 940
View 4 listings →
Median $4,250,000
Price Range $3,300,000 – $7,450,000 $3,895,000 – $4,300,000
Category Single Engine Turboprop Single Engine Turboprop
Model Specifications
Seats 10
Cruise Speed 260 kts (482 km/h)
Range 1,803 nm (3,339 km)
Service Ceiling 30,000 ft (9,144 m)
Max Gross Weight 10,450 lbs (4,740 kg)
Useful Load 3,610 lbs (1,637 kg)
Fuel Capacity 402.0 gal (1522 L)
Fuel Burn 60.0 GPH (227 L/h)
TBO 3,500 hrs
Overhaul Cost $500,000
Annual Fixed $180,000
Hourly Variable $900
Engines 1 x Turboprop

Cost of Ownership

Estimate

Pilatus PC-12

Fuel$330/hr
Variable$900/hr
Annual Fixed$180,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $360,000/yr

Socata TBM 940

Which Should You Buy: Pilatus PC-12 or Socata TBM 940?

Bottom line: Choose the PC-12 for the largest cabin in the class, the rear cargo door, rough-field versatility and 9-10 seats — the do-everything single turboprop for families, utility and operators. Choose the TBM for speed (~330 kt vs ~285 kt) and a lower price/operating cost in a sleeker, more owner-pilot-focused airframe. PC-12 = cabin/utility; TBM = speed/efficiency.

Pick the PC-12 if…

  • Budget matters — from $3,300,000 vs $3,895,000, you save ~$595,000.
  • More inventory — 18 listings vs 4.

Pick the TBM 940 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, Pilatus PC-12 or Socata TBM 940?
It depends on your mission and budget. The PC-12 cruises at 260 kts with 1,803 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Socata TBM 940: from $4,250,000. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Pilatus PC-12 and Socata TBM 940?
PC-12 engine: Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-67B.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
PC-12: about $900/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?
PC-12: 10 seats / 3,610 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?
PC-12: 3,500-hour TBO, overhaul ~$500,000. 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