Reims-Cessna F406 Caravan II

The Reims-Cessna F406 Caravan II is a unique hybrid, combining the successful airframe of the Cessna 404 Titan with the reliability of twin Pratt & Whitney PT6A turboprops. Unlike the single-engine Cessna 208 Caravan, the F406 offers the redundancy of two engines, which made it a favorite for European commercial operators and maritime surveillance missions. It occupies a niche as a high-utility, unpressurized ‘truck’ that is simpler to maintain than the pressurized Cessna 441 Conquest II.

Key Features for GA Buyers

• Twin-Engine Reliability: Ideal for operators who frequently fly over water, mountains, or at night, providing a significant safety margin over single-engine utility turboprops.
• Massive Payload: With a useful load exceeding 4,000 lbs, the F406 can handle heavy cargo or up to 12-14 passengers in high-density configurations.
• Trailing-Link Landing Gear: Inherited from the 404/441 series, this gear design is legendary for making smooth landings on both paved and semi-prepared surfaces.
• Mission Versatility: Easily convertible between executive seating, commuter bench seats, or a pure cargo floor. Many are equipped with a large underbelly cargo pod.

Trade-offs

• Unpressurized Cabin: Limits comfortable operations to lower altitudes. While it can climb to 30,000 ft, doing so requires supplemental oxygen for all occupants.
• Operational Costs: Double the engines and double the fuel burn compared to a 208 Caravan; expect a burn of approximately 60-70 GPH depending on power settings.
• Rarity: With fewer than 100 units built, finding pre-owned aircraft and specialized maintenance support in North America can be more challenging than with standard Cessna models.