Operating Costs Breakdown: Essential for Turboprop Aircraft Comparison 2025
In the ever-evolving world of business aviation and special mission operations, a detailed turboprop aircraft comparison is crucial for making an informed purchase. With rising interest in efficient, versatile aircraft for executive travel, cargo transport, and specialised roles, understanding operating costs of turboprop aircraft alongside performance metrics is key. At Safe Fly Aviation, your premier partner for global aircraft sales, we provide this comprehensive aircraft buying guide 2025 to help buyers worldwide evaluate top models like the Beechcraft King Air 360, Pilatus PC-12 NG, and Daher TBM 940.
Overview of Turboprop Aircraft: Why This Comparison Matters for Buyers
Turboprop aircraft blend propeller-driven efficiency with powerful turbines, ideal for regional business aviation and utility missions. The Beechcraft King Air 360, a reliable twin-turboprop from Textron Aviation, shines in multi-role adaptability and spacious interiors. The Pilatus PC-12 NG, a single-engine Swiss marvel, prioritises rugged versatility and cost-effective operations. The Daher TBM 940 offers high-speed performance in a compact, efficient package, perfect for owner-pilots.
These models share turboprop classification but vary in engine setup, capacity, and operating costs of turboprop aircraft, catering to diverse needs in the aircraft buying guide 2025. Keywords like "best turboprop aircraft 2025" and "turboprop aircraft for sale" often lead buyers here, and our analysis provides data-driven insights for global aircraft sales.
Twin-engine reliability with spacious cabin and proven track record in business aviation and special missions.
Swiss-engineered single-engine turboprop offering exceptional versatility and short-field performance capabilities.
High-speed single-engine turboprop designed for performance-focused buyers seeking jet-like speed and efficiency.
Detailed Specifications Comparison for Turboprop Aircraft Buyers
Our turboprop aircraft comparison includes a comprehensive specifications table based on 2025 manufacturer data, essential for evaluating performance in your aircraft buying guide.
| Category | Specification | Beechcraft King Air 360 | Pilatus PC-12 NG | Daher TBM 940 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Powerplant | ||||
| Powerplant | Engine Model | Twin Pratt & Whitney PT6A-60A (1,050 shp each) | Single Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67P (1,200 shp) | Single Pratt & Whitney PT6A-66D (850 shp) |
| Performance | ||||
| Performance | Maximum Cruise Speed | 312 ktas (578 km/h) | 285 ktas (528 km/h) | 330 ktas (611 km/h) |
| Performance | Maximum Range | 1,806 nm (3,345 km) | 1,845 nm (3,417 km) | 1,730 nm (3,204 km) |
| Performance | Takeoff Field Length | 3,300 ft (1,006 m) | 2,600 ft (792 m) | 2,380 ft (725 m) |
| Performance | Maximum Operating Altitude | 35,000 ft (10,668 m) | 30,000 ft (9,144 m) | 31,000 ft (9,449 m) |
| Performance | Rate of Climb | 2,700 fpm (823 m/min) | 1,920 fpm (585 m/min) | 4,000 fpm (1,219 m/min) |
| Weights | ||||
| Weights | Maximum Takeoff Weight | 15,000 lb (6,804 kg) | 10,450 lb (4,740 kg) | 7,394 lb (3,354 kg) |
| Weights | Useful Load | 5,145 lb (2,334 kg) | 3,965 lb (1,799 kg) | 2,911 lb (1,320 kg) |
| Weights | Fuel Capacity | 539 US gal (2,041 L) | 402 US gal (1,522 L) | 291 US gal (1,102 L) |
| Dimensions | ||||
| Dimensions | Overall Length | 46 ft 8 in (14.2 m) | 47 ft 3 in (14.4 m) | 35 ft 2 in (10.7 m) |
| Dimensions | Wingspan | 57 ft 11 in (17.7 m) | 53 ft 5 in (16.3 m) | 42 ft 1 in (12.8 m) |
| Dimensions | Cabin Length | 19 ft 6 in (5.9 m) | 16 ft 11 in (5.2 m) | 13 ft 3 in (4.0 m) |
| Dimensions | Cabin Height | 4 ft 9 in (1.45 m) | 4 ft 10 in (1.47 m) | 4 ft 0 in (1.22 m) |
| Dimensions | Cabin Width | 4 ft 6 in (1.37 m) | 5 ft 0 in (1.52 m) | 3 ft 11 in (1.19 m) |
| Dimensions | Maximum Occupants | 11 | 10 | 6 |
Data from manufacturer specifications and reports. Performance varies by configuration.
Operating Costs Breakdown: Essential for Turboprop Aircraft Comparison 2025
Understanding operating costs of turboprop aircraft is vital in any aircraft buying guide 2025, as they impact long-term ownership. We've added a detailed breakdown based on 2025 estimates, assuming 200 annual flight hours for consistency. These include fixed costs (annual, independent of hours) and variable costs (per hour, scaling with usage). Figures are USD estimates from reliable sources.
| Cost Category | Beechcraft King Air 360 | Pilatus PC-12 NG | Daher TBM 940 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Fixed Costs | $377,008 | $174,615 | $213,800 |
| Variable Costs per Hour | $1,200 | $833 | $1,220 |
| Total Annual Cost (200 hours) | $617,008 | $341,266 | $457,850 |
| Hourly Fuel Cost (est.) | $523 (90 GPH) | $277 (55 GPH) | $431 (69 GPH) |
| Approx. New Price (2025) | $7,500,000 | $6,250,000 | $4,450,000 |
Detailed Cost Breakdowns
Beechcraft King Air 360 Operating Costs
Fixed (Annual): Crew Salary £197,442; Training £30,902; Hangar £30,136; Insurance £28,528; Management £60,000; Miscellaneous £30,000.
Variable (per Hour): Fuel £523; Maintenance £229; Engine Overhaul £308; Landing/Handling £125; Miscellaneous £15.
Ideal for high-usage business aviation with balanced operating costs of turboprop aircraft.
Pilatus PC-12 NG Operating Costs
Fixed (Annual): Crew Salary £78,464; Training £10,898; Hangar £28,827; Insurance £18,941; Management £30,000; Miscellaneous £7,485.
Variable (per Hour): Fuel £277; Maintenance £238; Engine Overhaul £193; Landing/Handling £100; Miscellaneous £25.
Lower operating costs make it a top choice for versatile turboprop aircraft for sale.
Daher TBM 940 Operating Costs
Fixed (Annual): £213,800 (aggregated; includes insurance, hangar, etc.).
Variable (per Hour): £1,220 total, with fuel ~£431; other components like maintenance and overhaul contribute to the rest.
Efficient for speed-focused buyers in the best turboprop aircraft 2025 category.
These operating costs of turboprop aircraft highlight the PC-12 NG's edge in affordability, whilst the King Air 360 offers capacity at a premium.
Pros and Cons: Evaluating the Best Turboprop Aircraft 2025
Beechcraft King Air 360
Pros
- Twin-engine safety and redundancy
- Largest cabin amongst compared aircraft
- Versatile for special missions and business aviation
- Strong performance in turboprop aircraft comparison 2025
- Proven track record and global support network
Cons
- Higher operating costs of turboprop aircraft
- Longer runways needed for operations
- Higher acquisition cost
Pilatus PC-12 NG
Pros
- Superior short-field operations capability
- Flexible configurations for various missions
- Lowest operating costs among compared models
- Excellent build quality and Swiss engineering
- Single-engine simplicity
Cons
- Single engine (less redundancy)
- Slower cruise speed
- Lower maximum operating altitude
Daher TBM 940
Pros
- Highest cruise speed performance
- Excellent fuel efficiency
- Advanced avionics and automation
- Competitive in best turboprop aircraft 2025
- Ideal for owner-pilots
Cons
- Smaller cabin space
- Lower payload capacity
- Fewer passenger seats
Factors to Consider When Buying Turboprop Aircraft in 2025
In your aircraft buying guide, weigh mission requirements, budget (including operating costs of turboprop aircraft), and operating environment. Acquisition prices range £4-7.5M, with resale values remaining strong across all three models. Global regulations and financing options are key considerations for international buyers. Safe Fly Aviation specialises in these aspects for seamless global aircraft sales.
Key Considerations Include:
- Mission Profile: Determine primary use - business travel, cargo transport, or special missions
- Operating Environment: Runway lengths, altitude requirements, and climate conditions
- Passenger Capacity: Regular passenger load and cabin comfort requirements
- Range Requirements: Typical stage lengths and fuel efficiency priorities
- Maintenance Support: Global service network availability and technical support
- Regulatory Compliance: Certification requirements for intended operating regions
- Financing Options: Purchase, lease, or fractional ownership structures
Why Safe Fly Aviation is Your Premier Partner for Turboprop Aircraft Sales
With expertise in turboprop aircraft for sale, Safe Fly Aviation offers an extensive inventory of King Air 360, PC-12 NG, TBM 940, and more. Serving 60+ countries worldwide, we handle consultations, customisations, and after-sales support for buying turboprop aircraft globally.
Our Advantages:
- Global Reach: Serving clients across North America, Europe, Asia, and beyond with tailored sales solutions
- Expert Knowledge: Decades of experience in turboprop aircraft specifications and market trends
- Comprehensive Service: From initial consultation through delivery and beyond
- Regulatory Expertise: Navigate international compliance and certification requirements
- After-Sales Support: Ongoing maintenance, training, and technical support services
Ready to Find Your Perfect Turboprop Aircraft?
Contact Safe Fly Aviation today for personalised consultation and discover why we're the premier choice for global aircraft sales. Our experts are ready to help you select the ideal turboprop for your specific needs and budget.
Conclusion: Choose Wisely with Our Turboprop Aircraft Comparison 2025
This comprehensive guide, including detailed operating costs of turboprop aircraft, positions the Pilatus PC-12 NG for cost-conscious buyers seeking versatility, the King Air 360 for those prioritising capacity and twin-engine reliability, and the TBM 940 for performance-focused operators who value speed and efficiency.
Each aircraft excels in different areas: the PC-12 NG offers the lowest operating costs and exceptional short-field capability, making it ideal for diverse mission profiles. The King Air 360 provides unmatched cabin space and twin-engine safety, perfect for high-capacity business aviation and special missions. The TBM 940 delivers jet-like performance in a turboprop package, appealing to speed-conscious owner-pilots.
For the best turboprop aircraft 2025 selection tailored to your specific requirements, contact Safe Fly Aviation for personalised global aircraft sales support. Our team of aviation experts will help you navigate the complexities of aircraft acquisition, ensuring you make the right choice for your aviation needs.
Ready to explore our current inventory of turboprop aircraft for sale? Contact Safe Fly Aviation today for exclusive access to premium aircraft listings and expert consultation services. Your perfect turboprop awaits!
