How much does a single-engine turboprop cost?

Used single-engine turboprops range from $600K for an older TBM 700 to $5M+ for a late-model Pilatus PC-12 NGX or TBM 960. The Cessna Caravan starts at $400K used for older models. The Piper M600 ranges $1.5M-$2.5M, and the Epic E1000 starts around $3.5M. Price depends heavily on engine time remaining and avionics generation.

What is the best single-engine turboprop?

The Pilatus PC-12 is the most popular — spacious cabin (6-9 seats), 1,500+ nm range, and strong resale value. The Daher TBM 960 is the fastest single-engine aircraft at 330 ktas. The Cessna Caravan is the workhorse for utility and cargo operations. The Piper M600 offers Garmin Autoland safety technology at a lower price point than PC-12 or TBM.

Are single-engine turboprops safe?

Modern single-engine turboprops have excellent safety records. The PT6A engine is one of the most reliable in aviation with a TBO of 3,000-3,600 hours. The Piper M600 SLS has Garmin Autoland, and the Daher TBM has HomeSafe emergency autoland. EASA and FAA have approved single-engine turboprops for commercial IFR operations in Europe and the US.

How much does it cost to operate a single-engine turboprop?

Operating costs run $700-$1,200 per flight hour including fuel (35-50 gal/hr at $5-$7/gal), engine reserves, and maintenance. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, inspections) add $40K-$80K. A PC-12 at 300 hours/year costs approximately $400K-$550K annually. This is roughly half the cost of a comparable light jet.

Single-engine turboprop vs. light jet — which should I buy?

Turboprops win on operating costs ($700-$1,200/hr vs. $2,000-$4,000/hr), short-field capability (2,500 ft strips), and versatility. Light jets are faster (400+ ktas vs. 260-330 ktas) and fly higher (FL450 vs. FL310). For trips under 1,000 nm, a turboprop often arrives nearly as fast due to shorter taxi and climb times. A PC-12 can access 10x more airports than a Citation CJ3.