Aircraft overview

The Cessna F406 Caravan II is a twin turboprop utility aircraft developed and produced in France by Reims Aviation under Cessna license. It first flew in 1983, with production beginning in the mid 1980s and continuing in limited numbers into the 2010s. The aircraft is not a variant of the single engine Cessna 208 Caravan. It is a separate, unpressurized, retractable gear twin that combines a commuter style cabin with short field utility capability. Its relevance on the used market comes from a practical mix of turbine reliability, multi engine redundancy, freight flexibility and relatively modest runway requirements.

Performance & specifications

Typical cruise performance is around 220 to 230 knots, depending on altitude, weight and configuration. Published maximum range is commonly cited at about 1,200 nautical miles with reserves under favorable conditions, while practical mission range varies significantly with payload. The aircraft is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A series turboprops, most commonly PT6A-112 engines rated at about 500 shp each. Service ceiling is approximately 30,000 feet. Useful load is a key attraction, with many examples offering roughly 4,000 lb or more depending on equipment, interior and operating approval. The high wing, large cabin doors and robust landing gear support passenger, cargo, survey and special mission work.

Cabin & avionics

The Cessna F406 Caravan II cabin is typically configured for 9 to 12 occupants, although layouts vary by certification, operator and mission equipment. The cabin is unpressurized, so buyers should assess typical route altitude, passenger comfort and oxygen requirements. Many aircraft have been used for regional transport, air ambulance, maritime patrol, surveillance, skydiving or cargo operations. Avionics were generally delivered as conventional analog and radio navigation suites from suppliers such as Bendix/King or Collins. Used examples may have upgrades including Garmin GNS or GTN navigators, modern transponders, ADS-B, weather radar, engine monitors and updated autopilots. Garmin Perspective and factory G1000 installations are not typical for this model.

Buying & value

Prospective buyers should focus on engine times, hot section and overhaul status, propeller condition, landing gear maintenance, corrosion history and the quality of any mission conversions. Records are especially important because many aircraft worked in demanding commercial or government roles. Common value drivers include avionics modernization, cargo or passenger interior condition, camera or survey modifications, known maintenance support and remaining life on major components. In the used market, the Cessna F406 Caravan II usually sits between piston twins and larger pressurized turboprops, appealing to operators that need turbine performance and payload without moving into a higher cost cabin class.