Kodiak 900 Buyer’s Guide
The Kodiak 900 stands out in the turboprop category for its robust flight capabilities, flexibility, and cost-efficiency. Designed for short-field operations, this model is ideal for businesses and individuals seeking a reliable and economical transport solution, capable of carrying up to nine passengers comfortably. Equipped with a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-34 engine, it offers a cruising speed of 300 km/h and a range of 1850 km.
For potential buyers, this guide aims to present the main characteristics of the Kodiak 900, focusing on its market, operating costs, and buy versus charter options. Also discover recommended platforms for purchase and testimonials from current owners. Kodiak 900
Kodiak 900 Market and Budget
New and Used Prices
| Condition | Low Range | High Range | Note |
|---|
| New | 3.5M USD | 3.5M USD | List Price |
| Used | 2.2M USD | 3.2M USD | Depending on age and condition |
The Kodiak 900 market is characterized by strong demand among users looking for a versatile and economical aircraft. Used prices vary depending on the aircraft’s condition and maintenance history, with typical depreciation of approximately 28% over five years. Due to its robustness and efficiency, the Kodiak 900 retains good residual value.
Availability and Lead Times
Currently, the global Kodiak 900 fleet numbers several hundred aircraft. Lead times for purchasing a used aircraft generally range from 3 to 6 months, while delivery of a new one can take up to 12 months, depending on the order book.
Residual Value
| Reference | Value USD | Estimated n+3 Value | Estimated n+5 Value | Depreciation |
|---|
| New | 3.5M USD | 2.9M USD | 2.5M USD | ~28% over 5 years |
The Kodiak 900’s residual value is influenced by its robustness, market popularity, and the overall health of the aviation economy. A good maintenance history also enhances its value.
Full Initial Budget
| Item | Estimated Amount | % of Purchase Price |
|---|
| Purchase | 3,500,000 USD | 100% |
| PPI Fees (0.5-1%) | 17,500 - 35,000 USD | 0.5-1% |
| Legal Fees | 5,000 - 10,000 USD | ~0.1% |
| First Year Insurance | 20,000 USD | ~0.6% |
| Potential Modifications | 50,000 USD | ~1.4% |
| Total | 3,592,500 - 3,615,000 USD | ~104% |
Kodiak 900 Operating Costs (OpEx)
Annual Fixed Costs
| Item | Annual Cost USD | Notes |
|---|
| Crew (2 pilots + HA) | 150,000 | Salaries and training |
| Hangar | 50,000 | Average location |
| Hull Insurance | 30,000 | Average coverage |
| JSSI/MSP Engine Contracts | 45,000 | Predictive maintenance |
| Navigation Subscriptions | 10,000 | |
| Total | 285,000 USD | |
Variable Costs per Hour
| Item | Cost/hour USD | Assumptions |
|---|
| Fuel | 198 USD | 220 L/h at 0.9 USD/L |
| Scheduled Maintenance | 100 USD | Based on Check A and C |
| Airport/Navigation Fees | 100-120 USD | Varies by destination |
| Total Variable | 380-420 USD | |
Maintenance Deadlines
| Type | Hours Interval | Estimated Cost USD | Downtime Duration |
|---|
| Check A | 200h | 5,000 | 2-3 days |
| Check B | 600h | 12,000 | 1-2 weeks |
| Check C | 1200h | 25,000 | 3-6 weeks |
| Engine TBO | 4000h | 200,000 | 4-6 weeks |
JSSI/ESP/MSP programs offer financing solutions for maintenance, allowing for better control of long-term costs.
Annual Comparison by Usage Intensity
| Item | 150h/year | 300h/year | 500h/year |
|---|
| Fixed Costs | 285,000 USD | 285,000 USD | 285,000 USD |
| Fuel | 29,700 USD | 59,400 USD | 99,000 USD |
| Maintenance | 45,000 USD | 90,000 USD | 150,000 USD |
| Fees | 27,000 USD | 54,000 USD | 90,000 USD |
| Annual Total | 386,700 USD | 488,400 USD | 624,000 USD |
Buy or Charter a Kodiak 900: Cost-Usage Arbitration
Initial Costs (Purchase vs. Charter)
Purchasing a Kodiak 900 ties up significant initial capital (3.5M USD), while chartering offers flexibility with variable costs based solely on usage, at approximately 2,900 EUR/h for charter.
5-Year Scenarios
| Scenario | Hours/year | Total 5-year Purchase Cost | Total 5-year Charter Cost | Difference |
|---|
| Low | 150h | 3,933,500 USD | 2,175,000 EUR | Purchase Surcharge |
| Medium | 300h | 4,942,000 USD | 4,350,000 EUR | Purchase Surcharge |
| High | 500h | 6,120,000 USD | 7,250,000 EUR | Purchase Savings |
Break-even Point
The break-even point for purchase versus charter is approximately 320 hours per year. Beyond this threshold, purchasing becomes more competitive due to the amortization of fixed costs. Charter a Kodiak 900
Where to Buy a Kodiak 900
Buying through a broker offers valuable expertise in negotiation and due diligence, while a direct purchase can reduce costs. Due diligence and a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) are essential to ensure aircraft quality.
Specialized Brokers vs. Direct Purchase
Brokers offer comprehensive services, including aircraft search, negotiation, and logistical support. Direct purchase can be more economical but requires in-house expertise to manage legal and technical aspects. 
Kodiak 900 Owner Reviews
“The Kodiak 900 is a marvel of efficiency and reliability. With its ability to land on short runways, it perfectly suits our network of destinations in mountainous regions. Its fuel consumption of 220 L/h is incredibly economical for an aircraft of this size.”
— Director of Air Operations, French Alps
“As a Kodiak 900 owner, I appreciate its durability and ability to transport up to nine passengers without compromising performance. Maintenance is made easy by well-spaced maintenance intervals, and the cost per hour is competitive compared to other turboprops.”
— Private Pilot, French Riviera
Kodiak 900 owners particularly appreciate its robustness and operating economy, making it a popular choice for demanding operations. Read all Kodiak 900 reviews
Finalizing the Kodiak 900 Acquisition
Key Acquisition Steps
- Pre-purchase agreement
- Pre-purchase inspection (PPI)
- Legal and tax due diligence
- Registration (N-number, F-XXXX, etc.)
- Insurance transfer
Registration offers tax and operational advantages depending on the chosen registry, with popular options including the United States, Cayman Islands, Malta, or France.
Financing
Financing options include aviation bank loans, operational leasing, and finance leasing. These solutions offer flexibility in terms of rates and durations, adapted to the different needs of buyers.
| Financing Method | Required Down Payment | Indicative Rate | Duration |
|---|
| Aviation Bank Loan | 20-30% | 4-7% | 5-10 years |
| Operational Leasing | 0-10% | 5-8% | 3-7 years |
| Finance Leasing | 15-25% | 6-9% | 5-12 years |
