dhc-8-202

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DHC-8-202 Airliner Specifications and Charter Rates

The DHC-8-202, a member of the renowned Dash 8 family, is a twin-engine turboprop regional airliner designed for short- to medium-haul routes, capable of seating up to 39 passengers in spacious comfort. First introduced in the early 1990s, it quickly gained recognition for its remarkable versatility, powerful performance on short runways, and cost-effective operations for both charter and scheduled services.


Today, the DHC-8-202 is trusted worldwide by discerning travelers, government agencies, and corporate groups for its reliability and ability to access remote destinations that are out of reach for traditional jets. This profile details its cabin features, real-world range, performance, and the reasons it stands out as a flexible charter airliner.

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DHC-8-202 Overview

The DHC-8-202 falls within the airliner category, specifically designed for regional service where performance and passenger comfort are equally vital. Configured for up to 39 occupants, it offers a generous cabin with ample headroom and wide aisles, making it ideal for shuttle flights, group charters, and executive travel. Its two Pratt & Whitney PW123D turboprop engines provide the thrust required for short takeoff and landing performance, giving access to airports and airfields with challenging runways.


What differentiates the DHC-8-202 in the charter market is its operational flexibility. Able to land on gravel or lightly improved strips, it serves clients needing to reach destinations outside the scope of typical jet service. Operators value its proven reliability, low operating costs, and quick turnaround capability, all of which combine to offer a premium group travel solution that excels in both scheduled and bespoke missions.


With a legacy of robust engineering and global fleet support, the DHC-8-202 continues to be a preferred choice for clients seeking a safe, comfortable, and efficient regional charter experience.

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DHC-8-202 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:

Airliner

Passenger capacity:

Up to 37 (typical), 39 maximum

Crew:

2 pilots, 1 flight attendant

Range:

Approximately 1713 nautical miles (around 1971 statute miles)

High-speed cruise:

310 knots (about 360 mph)

Long-range cruise:

Approximately 265 knots

Service ceiling:

25000 fee

Engines:

Two Pratt & Whitney PW123D turboprops

Thrust:

Roughly 2150 lbf per engine

Takeoff distance:

About 3300 feet

Landing distance:

About 2900 feet

Average fuel burn:

Around 180 gallons per hour

Baggage capacity:

Approximately 12 cubic feet

First delivered:

Early 1990s

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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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DHC-8-202 Range and Performance

With a maximum range of approximately 1,713 nautical miles, the DHC-8-202 easily connects regional city pairs and remote locations without refueling. Typical nonstop routes include Vancouver to Calgary, Dallas to Atlanta, or Paris to Rome, making it a favorite for both scheduled commuter service and private group charters. | Its cruise speed of 310 knots ensures fast, efficient travel, while its short-field capability allows for departure and arrival at airports not typically served by larger jets. The DHC-8-202 is equally at home on major runways and unimproved strips, giving travelers more options for their journey. | Takeoff and landing distances are notably short—around 3,300 feet and 2,900 feet, respectively—opening up access to a wide range of secondary and regional airports. The aircraft's fuel efficiency, courtesy of its advanced turboprop engines, ensures cost-effective operation for both operators and clients, all while maintaining a premium standard of comfort and reliability.

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DHC-8-202 Cabin Experience and Interior

Passengers onboard the DHC-8-202 enjoy a bright, spacious cabin with generous headroom and full stand-up capability throughout the aisle. The typical airline-style seating accommodates up to 39 guests in a single-class configuration, with large windows offering excellent outside views. | The cabin is designed to maximize comfort even on longer regional flights, featuring noise-reducing insulation and ample storage for carry-on luggage. Overhead bins and under-seat space accommodate personal items, while a rear lavatory and galley area ensure passenger needs are met. | Depending on operator and mission, interiors may be customized for executive layouts, medevac, or VIP shuttles, with select aircraft featuring enhanced finishes, in-flight service options, and entertainment systems. For group charters, corporate teams, or event travel, the DHC-8-202 delivers a reliable and enjoyable in-flight experience.

DHC-8-202 Charter Cost and Hourly Rates

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Chartering a DHC-8-202 typically runs in the range of $4200 to $5500 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 121 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 DHC-8-202 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 DHC-8-202?

The DHC-8-202 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

The DHC-8-202 is ideal for larger groups, corporate shuttles, sports teams, or government missions that require access to regional or remote destinations. For shorter hops or solo travelers, a light jet or turboprop may be more efficient, but for high-capacity charters within a few hours' flight time, the Dash 8-202 stands out for its versatility and value.

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How the DHC-8-202 Compares to Other Airliner

The DHC-8-202 is part of the iconic de Havilland Dash 8 series, first launched in the 1980s as a modern response to growing demand for efficient regional airliners. De Havilland Canada, renowned for its rugged, reliable aircraft, engineered the Dash 8 to deliver short-field capability and superior performance in diverse operating environments.


The 200 Series, including the -202 variant, debuted in the early 1990s and brought enhancements in power and payload over the original Dash 8-100. Upgraded engines and improved avionics made the -202 a favorite for operators serving challenging routes, from Arctic supply runs to intercity business shuttles.


Production continued under Bombardier Aerospace, further establishing the Dash 8's reputation for durability and adaptability. Today, the DHC-8-202 remains a mainstay in regional fleets worldwide, appreciated for its proven performance, low operating costs, and ability to reach destinations beyond the range of conventional jets.

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DHC-8-202 History and Background

The DHC-8-202 is part of the iconic de Havilland Dash 8 series, first launched in the 1980s as a modern response to growing demand for efficient regional airliners. De Havilland Canada, renowned for its rugged, reliable aircraft, engineered the Dash 8 to deliver short-field capability and superior performance in diverse operating environments.


The 200 Series, including the -202 variant, debuted in the early 1990s and brought enhancements in power and payload over the original Dash 8-100. Upgraded engines and improved avionics made the -202 a favorite for operators serving challenging routes, from Arctic supply runs to intercity business shuttles.


Production continued under Bombardier Aerospace, further establishing the Dash 8's reputation for durability and adaptability. Today, the DHC-8-202 remains a mainstay in regional fleets worldwide, appreciated for its proven performance, low operating costs, and ability to reach destinations beyond the range of conventional jets.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Passengers Can the DHC-8-202 Carry?

The DHC-8-202 typically seats between 37 and 39 passengers in a single-class airline configuration, with larger seats and adjustable layouts available for VIP or executive shuttle missions.

What Is the Range of the DHC-8-202?

The DHC-8-202 has a range of approximately 1713 nautical miles, or roughly 1971 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 DHC-8-202 Fly?

Its high-speed cruise is 310 knots (about 360 mph), with a long-range cruise near 265 knots. The aircraft's 25000-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 DHC-8-202?

Charter rates generally fall between roughly $4200 and $5500 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 DHC-8-202 Have a Stand-up Cabin?

Yes. The DHC-8-202 offers a true stand-up cabin with generous headroom throughout, a dedicated lavatory, and overhead storage for carry-on luggage, ensuring comfort on every regional journey.

Is the DHC-8-202 Good for Transcontinental Flights?

Yes, the DHC-8-202 can handle most regional and short-haul routes, including city pairs like Vancouver to Calgary or Dallas to Atlanta, without a fuel stop under normal conditions.

Jettly gives you access to a global marketplace of more than 23,000 aircraft, including DHC-8-202 jets operated by vetted FAA Part 121 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 DHC-8-202, 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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