Aircraft comparison
Turboprop vs Light Jet
On the shortest legs, a turboprop (a King Air or Pilatus PC-12) can be the smarter charter than a jet. The trade is speed and cabin altitude for a lower rate and even shorter-runway access.
Cost and where the crossover is
Turboprops typically charter below the light-jet band, which sits around $2,600–$3,800/hr. On a 45-to-90-minute leg, the turboprop's lower rate often wins outright. Past about 90 minutes to two hours, a light jet's higher speed starts closing the time gap and the jet becomes the better value of your day.
Runways and cabin
Single-engine turboprops like the PC-12 reach very short and unpaved strips a jet can't, which opens remote destinations. Light jets fly higher (above most weather), faster, and quieter, with a more jet-like cabin, but need more runway.
| Turboprop | Light jet | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical seats | 6–8 | 6–7 |
| Cruise speed | ~250–320 kt | ~400–465 kt |
| Best legs | Under ~90 min | 1–3 hr |
| Runway access | Excellent (short/unpaved) | Good |
| Relative cost | Lower | $2,600–$3,800/hr |
Turboprop vs light jet, general characteristics.
The verdict
For a genuinely short hop or a remote strip, a turboprop can be the most sensible charter you'll book. For anything past ~90 minutes, or when you want to fly above the weather, the light jet earns its rate.
Frequently asked
Is a turboprop cheaper than a light jet?
Generally yes, turboprops usually charter below the light-jet band (around $2,600–$3,800/hr). The savings are largest on very short legs; on longer trips the jet's speed narrows the total-cost gap.
Are turboprops safe for charter?
Yes. Modern turboprops like the Pilatus PC-12 and King Air series are workhorses of charter with strong safety records. As with any charter, fly only with FAA Part 135 operators holding third-party safety ratings.
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