When it comes to versatile aircraft for your next private charter flight, the Cessna Grand Caravan C208B, Cessna 402B, and King Air 200 stand out in the light aircraft category. At MCC Aviation, we are proud to have these incredible all-round fixed wing aircraft in our hangars, ready to take on the next mission that comes our way. From private charters in South Africa and beyond, to conservation missions, these aircraft have proven to be highly multifaceted.   

Each model has unique specifications, performance capabilities, and ideal use cases. This blog will provide a comparative analysis of these three aircraft, helping you understand their strengths based on different operational needs. Do you need a private charter for a hunting trip, to your next sporting event or for a corporate charter? Find out which one will work for you.

Overview of the Aircraft

The King Air 200 is a multi-engine turbine aircraft designed for both passenger and cargo transport. It can accommodate up to 9 passengers, with a crew of 2, and boasts a cruise speed of 450 km/h. Its range extends to 1,700 km, making it suitable for medium to long-range operations. The King Air features a pressurised and air-conditioned cabin, enhancing passenger comfort. Additionally, it has excellent short field and bush strip capabilities, making it a versatile choice for varied operational demands. This King Air is a great option for your next corporate meeting or for a VIP charter flight from Lanseria International Airport. 

In contrast, the Cessna Grand Caravan C208B is a single-engine turbine aircraft that can carry up to 12 passengers with a crew of 2. While its cruise speed is lower at 300 km/h, it compensates with a long range of 1,750 km, ideal for extended flights. The Caravan has an unpressurized cabin, which may limit comfort on long journeys, but its short and medium-range capabilities make it a reliable option for regional travel.

Like the King Air, it also offers flexibility for passenger or cargo configurations, complete with a cargo pod. The rugged undercarriage and higher propellor position allows the caravan to venture to the most remote destinations often taking on bush strips which would otherwise be unreachable in the King Air 200 or Cessna 402. This makes this aircraft perfect for a private charter flight on your next hunting trip, or to charter a group on safari. 

The Cessna 402B is a multi-engine piston aircraft known for its balance of performance and comfort. With a capacity for 4 passengers and a crew of 1, it has a cruise speed of 320 km/h and a range of 720 km. Like the Caravan, the cabin is unpressurised. This aircraft is also equipped for short field and bush strip operations, making it a strong contender for various short to medium-range missions. It’s particularly noted for its reliability and versatility, allowing operators to efficiently switch between passenger and cargo roles. Our Cessna has been picked by clients who are looking for a private charter flight within Southern Africa. It is a great option for corporate business charters, or VIP jet transport to your destination.  

Performance Comparison

Speed and Range

The King Air 200 boasts the highest cruise speed at 450 km/h, making it suitable for operations requiring quick transit times. It also offers a respectable range of 1,750 km, ideal for regional operations.

In contrast, the Cessna Grand Caravan C208B has the lowest cruise speed at 300 km/h but excels in greater passenger and cargo carrying capability, which makes it more suited for flights where speed is less of a priority. The Cessna 402B occupies a middle ground with a cruise speed of 320 km/h and a range of 720 km, suitable for various short to medium-range missions.

So, the King Air 200 is the perfect choice for you to charter a flight from Johannesburg to Cape Town and ensure a quick and easy transfer. The Cessna Grand Caravan  on the other hand is a great option for your hunting charters, conservation missions and chartering a group with a lot of cargo, in and around Southern Africa.  

Capacity and Weight

When it comes to passenger capacity, the Cessna Grand Caravan  takes the lead with seating for 12 passengers, making it the best choice for larger groups. The King Air 200 follows with 9 seats, while the Cessna 402B accommodates 4 or 5.

In terms of maximum weight, the King Air 200 and Cessna Grand Caravan can accommodate up to a tonne of cargo in varying sizes and suited to client requirements, providing more flexibility for volume, the Cessna Grand Caravan would be the most suitable where the King Air 200 allows for wider range of destinations. 

The Cessna 402B is the optimum choice for short, light loads with a maximum capacity of 350 to 450 kg for regional destinations. This is your optimum VIP private jet option, which, together with the luxury lounge and privileges of private charter, is perfect for business or leisure charter.

Cabin Configuration

The cabin configuration plays a crucial role in passenger comfort and operational flexibility. The King Air 200 features pressurised cabins with air-conditioning, enhancing passenger comfort on longer flights. In contrast, the Cessna 402B and Cessna Grand Caravan have an unpressurised cabin, which keeps the overall costs lower. Cabin configuration can be easily adjusted between all aircraft types tailored to client preferences. 

So, if you need a charter flight for a group of people, or are looking to haul large equipment to your destination, we can adjust the private charter jet based on your needs and expectations. 

Operational Capabilities

Short Field and Bush Strip Operations

All three aircraft are designed with short field and bush strip capabilities, making them suitable for operations in remote locations. This versatility is particularly advantageous for operators in regions with limited airport infrastructure or in need of accessing rugged terrain.

Over the years, we have had a number of clients who have booked our fixed wing charters to fly to neighbouring countries like Mozambique, Zambia, Botswana, Malawi and Zimbabwe.  Whether it be hunting trips, safaris, or chartering a flight to a mine or operational site, the capabilities of these aircraft allow them to land, refuel and take off on short, dirt runways. 

Cargo and Passenger Versatility

Each aircraft can be configured for passenger or cargo transport, providing operators with operational flexibility. The Cessna Grand Caravan offers a cargo pod option, enhancing its cargo capacity without compromising passenger space. Previously, we have used this fixed wing for our conservation mission when we transferred wild cheetahs to their new home. 

The Cessna 402B boasts a spacious nose compartment which is ideal for various sporting equipment such as hunting rifles, golf bags for small groups or even fishing equipment. This allows ample leg room for intimate groups taking on their next private charter adventure

Economic Considerations

Operating Costs

Operating costs vary significantly among the three models. The Cessna Grand Caravan, with its single-engine turbine, generally has lower fuel consumption compared to multi-engine aircraft. The King Air 200 engine, while more efficient than the Grand Caravan, typically incurs higher operating costs due to its multi-engine setup. The Cessna 402B, being a multi-engine piston, is cost effective and ideal for the smaller groups who need a quick short trip to their destination.

Our team will be able to provide you with an accurate quote on your specific needs. Whether you need a corporate charter flight, or a fixed wing charter for a specific mission like hunting or conservation, the costs will be determined on the aircraft, number of passengers and additional cargo.

It will also depend on timing, location of your destination and any further specific private charter flight requirements. You may also find out that our charter helicopter options are more suited to your needs. 

The Bottom Line 

Choosing between the Cessna Grand Caravan C208B, Cessna 402B, and King Air 200 depends on specific operational needs. If speed and passenger comfort are priorities, King Air 200  is an excellent choice. For routes with larger passenger groups, sporting events or remote and tough terrain, the Grand Caravan shines. Meanwhile, the Cessna 402B offers a balance of performance and versatility, making it suitable for various short to medium-range missions for a small group. Ultimately, you should assess their specific requirements, budget, and mission profiles to determine the best fit among these capable aircraft.