Turboprops and Twin Pistons: Know Your Options

Photo Courtesy of Beechcraft

Aside from jet aircraft which range from very light jets to heavy jets, there is another significant player in the charter market. Turboprops are aircraft that utilize a gas jet engine to operate a propeller rather than jet thrust typically used on larger aircraft. Most turboprop engines are manufactured Pratt & Whitney Canada and Honeywell, known in the aviation community for their reliability and power. As a predecessor to turboprops, the twin-piston aircraft are also a viable choice. Piston aircraft are typically smaller aircraft, seating up to 6 passengers. The piston aircraft are powered by piston engines (or reciprocating engines), and use heat to produce steam pressure, which in turn is used to generate a rotating motion that powers the engine.

How do turboprops compare to jets? 

Turboprops are a great solution for trips less than 500 miles (300 miles or less for twin-piston aircraft) and for trips into airports with shorter runways inaccessible to larger jets. Unlike jets, many turboprops can easily land on shorter airstrips and can even land in grass airfields vs. needing a traditional runway. While jets can travel at faster speeds than turboprops, having more options in regards to places to land, enables turboprop passengers to get closer to their destinations, often saving time and money.

Turboprops are generally less expensive to operate than jets. Fuel costs and other expenses like maintenance tend to also be lower for props, making them a great option for shorter trips. Seating varies by aircraft model from 4-8 passengers in most turboprops. While a bit smaller than their jet cousins, many turboprops offer comparable cabin comforts and are equipped for both business and relaxation in the air. Contrary to popular thought, modern day turboprops come equipped with resonance technology that almost entirely cancels out the propeller noise, so they are not generally loud in the cabin. As far as storage, many turboprops have comparable baggage and cabin space as their jet counterparts.

There are several factors to consider when choosing an aircraft for your charter needs. Let us help you decide which will be best for your trip. In the meantime, check out our turboprop and twin-piston charter options below and click to view each aircraft’s specifications.

To request an aircraft recommendation, please contact us. We would be happy to provide you with several options and flight quotes.

Turboprop Specifications

All flights arranged by Private Business Jets, LLC DBA FlyPrivate are operated by Part 135 Certified Air Carriers. FlyPrivate will act as your agent for the purpose of obtaining charter service.

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