dash8-400

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Dash8-400 Turbo Prop Specifications and Charter Rates

The Dash8-400 is a modern twin-engine turboprop designed for high-capacity regional flights, comfortably accommodating up to 78 passengers with a cruise speed of 360 knots and a range of approximately 1,270 nautical miles. Launched in the late 1990s as the flagship of Bombardier’s Q-Series, it quickly became renowned for its efficiency, short runway capability, and quiet, spacious cabin optimized for both business and leisure groups.


For clients seeking point-to-point travel between cities or remote destinations, the Dash8-400 offers an unmatched blend of reliability, operational flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. This profile highlights its full performance specifications, cabin amenities, range capabilities, sample charter pricing, and the most common questions travelers ask before they fly.

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Dash8-400 Overview

The Dash8-400 defines the modern turboprop category, balancing impressive passenger capacity, fuel efficiency, and access to challenging airports. Configured for up to 78 seats, it provides a comfortable and productive environment for regional business travel, sporting events, or exclusive group charters. Two Pratt & Whitney PW150A engines deliver power and reliability, supporting a service ceiling of 27,000 feet and nimble performance out of shorter runways.


Operating costs are significantly lower than comparable jets, while the advanced noise-suppression system ensures a remarkably quiet ride. The Dash8-400’s proven versatility and outstanding dispatch record make it a go-to solution for private groups needing to move quickly between cities or reach destinations outside the reach of traditional airliners.


Operators value the robust engineering and ease of maintenance, while charter clients benefit from the spacious interior and flexible cabin layouts. For regional missions, the Dash8-400 delivers a premium travel experience without compromise.

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Dash8-400 Specifications

The figures below summarize the performance and dimensions that matter most when you are matching an aircraft to a trip. They reflect typical configurations; exact numbers vary with weight, weather, and how a given aircraft is equipped.

Aircraft class:

Turbo Prop

Passenger capacity:

Up to 74 (typical), 78 maximum

Crew:

2 pilots, 2 flight attendants

Range:

Approximately 1270 nautical miles (around 1460 statute miles)

High-speed cruise:

360 knots (about 414 mph)

Long-range cruise:

Approximately 310 knots

Service ceiling:

27000 fee

Engines:

Two Pratt & Whitney PW150A turboprops

Thrust:

Roughly 5071 lbf per engine

Takeoff distance:

About 4700 feet

Landing distance:

About 3000 feet

Average fuel burn:

Around 900 gallons per hour

Baggage capacity:

Approximately 11 cubic feet

First delivered:

2000

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The figures below summarize the performance and dimensions that matter most when you are matching an aircraft to a trip. They reflect typical configurations; exact numbers vary with weight, weather, and how a given aircraft is equipped.

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Dash8-400 Range and Performance

The Dash8-400’s range of 1,270 nautical miles makes it an ideal fit for regional and multi-city itineraries, easily connecting city pairs such as Los Angeles to Denver, Toronto to New York, or Paris to Milan nonstop, even with a full passenger load. | Short-field capability enables operation from smaller regional airports and remote airstrips, opening up travel options that are off-limits to larger jets. The aircraft’s 360-knot cruise speed ensures swift journeys, while its robust design and reliable engines provide peace of mind for both operators and passengers alike. | A takeoff roll of just 4,700 feet and landing roll of 3,000 feet allow the Dash8-400 to access a wide variety of airports, getting clients closer to their ultimate destination and minimizing ground transfers. For groups traveling together, the Dash8-400 is a time-saving solution that transforms regional air travel into a seamless, convenient experience.

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Dash8-400 Cabin Experience and Interior

The Dash8-400 boasts one of the most spacious and quiet cabins in its class, thanks to advanced noise and vibration suppression technology. Generous headroom and large windows create a bright, open atmosphere, supporting comfort on flights of several hours. | Standard configurations feature 74 to 78 ergonomic seats arranged in a comfortable four-abreast layout, with flexible options for business-class or VIP arrangements to suit private charter requirements. | Passengers enjoy ample legroom, individual lighting and ventilation, and a well-appointed galley for in-flight service. The aft baggage area, with approximately 11 cubic feet of storage, accommodates carry-ons and essential gear, while the cabin’s wide aisles allow for easy movement and quick boarding. | For business or leisure groups, the Dash8-400 delivers a smooth, refined travel experience where every detail is designed for comfort and efficiency.

Dash8-400 Charter Cost and Hourly Rates

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Chartering a Dash8-400 typically runs in the range of $3900 to $5300 per flight hour, though the figure you are quoted depends on several factors. Rates move with the route, the season, repositioning (or ferry) time, airport fees, crew costs, and how a specific aircraft is equipped. Peak travel periods and one-way trips that leave an aircraft far from its base tend to sit at the higher end, while round trips and flights that align with an operator's existing schedule can come in lower.

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It also helps to understand how charter pricing is structured. Most quotes are built around occupied flight hours plus those repositioning costs, landing and handling fees, taxes, and crew expenses. Because Jettly is a charter marketplace rather than an aircraft operator, you can compare live quotes from multiple FAA Part 135 and book the option that fits your route and budget.

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Empty-leg flights, the discounted repositioning trips that operators are keen to fill, can also bring the cost of a Dash8-400 down significantly when the timing works in your favor. For an exact, current price on your specific trip, request a quote, and you will see real availability rather than an estimate.

Who Should Charter the Dash8-400?

The Dash8-400 fits a wide set of missions, which is part of why it stays busy. It is a strong match for:

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Small executive teams traveling together to a meeting, site visit, or conference

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Regional and many transcontinental business trips that need to be completed in a single day

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Families or groups of up to eight heading to a vacation or event

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Travelers carrying bulkier baggage, such as golf clubs or ski gear

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Anyone who values flexible airport access and a stand-up cabin over the lowest possible price

While the Dash8-400 is not intended for long-haul or intercontinental flights, its sweet spot is high-capacity regional travel for groups who value speed, reliability, and cost-efficiency. For executive teams, sports organizations, or family gatherings seeking direct access to regional airports, the Dash8-400 is a smart, versatile choice.

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How the Dash8-400 Compares to Other Turbo Prop

The Dash8-400 stands out among turboprops for its unique combination of speed, capacity, and operational flexibility, easily outperforming most regional competitors. Its advanced engine technology and low noise profile give it a distinct edge in passenger comfort and efficiency.


While some turboprops offer similar range or fuel economy, few can match the Dash8-400’s ability to accommodate large groups with such a quiet, spacious interior. Its proven reliability and short-runway performance make it a favorite for group charters and regional operators alike.


As a result, the Dash8-400 remains the premier choice for those seeking the best in turboprop travel, delivering a superior charter experience every time.

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Dash8-400 History and Background

The Dash8-400, also known as the Q400, is the largest and fastest member of the Dash 8 family, first entering service in 2000 as a game-changing regional airliner. Developed by Bombardier, it was designed to answer the market’s need for greater capacity, speed, and quiet comfort in the turboprop segment.


Key innovations included the adoption of advanced noise and vibration suppression, a new high-speed wing, and more powerful engines, making the Q400 a favorite with regional carriers worldwide. Its reputation for reliability and efficiency quickly established it as a leader in short- to medium-haul operations.


Production shifted to De Havilland Canada in 2019, ensuring continued support and development. Today, the Dash8-400 remains a preferred platform for charter operators and discerning travelers alike, offering an unrivaled combination of performance, comfort, and flexibility for group travel.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Passengers Can the Dash8-400 Carry?

The Dash8-400 typically seats 74 to 78 passengers in a four-abreast configuration, with some operators able to customize the layout for VIP or business-class charters. The spacious cabin is designed for comfort on regional journeys, making it ideal for group travel.

What Is the Range of the Dash8-400?

The Dash8-400 has a range of approximately 1270 nautical miles, or roughly 1460 statute miles. That is enough to fly most regional routes and many transcontinental trips nonstop, with the longest coast-to-coast legs occasionally needing a brief fuel stop depending on winds and load.

How Fast Does the Dash8-400 Fly?

Its high-speed cruise is 360 knots (about 414 mph), with a long-range cruise near 310 knots. The aircraft's 27000-foot service ceiling lets it fly above most weather and traffic for a smoother, more direct trip.

How Much Does It Cost to Charter a Dash8-400?

Charter rates generally fall between roughly $3900 and $5300 per flight hour, depending on the route, season, repositioning, and fees. Because Jettly is a marketplace, you can compare live quotes from multiple Part 135 operators and book the best option for your trip; empty-leg flights can lower the cost further.

Does the Hawker Dash8-400 Have a Stand-up Cabin?

Yes, the Dash8-400 features a stand-up cabin with generous headroom and wide aisles, allowing passengers to move about freely during flight. There is also a private lavatory and a dedicated baggage area for personal belongings.

Is the Dash8-400 Good for Transcontinental Flights?

Absolutely. The Dash8-400 is engineered to handle regional routes up to 1,270 nautical miles, making city pairs such as Los Angeles to Denver or Toronto to New York easily accessible without refueling. Its short-field performance also enables access to smaller airports, maximizing your travel flexibility.

Jettly gives you access to a global marketplace of more than 23,000 aircraft, including Dash8-400 jets operated by vetted FAA Part 135 Part 135 carriers. Compare live quotes, check real availability, and book with full concierge support, whether you are planning a single regional hop or a recurring travel schedule.

Enter your route and dates to get instant pricing on the Dash8-400, or speak with our team about empty-leg deals and membership options that can bring your cost per trip down even further.

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