Airliner • McDonnell Douglas • MD-81, MD-82, MD-83, MD-87, MD-88
| Manufacturer | McDonnell Douglas |
| Model | MD-80 |
| Category | Airliner |
| Variants | MD-81, MD-82, MD-83, MD-87, MD-88 |
| Production Years | 1980 – 1999 |
| Seating | 130, 155, 172 seats |
| Typical TTAF | 42,000 hours |
| Markets | United States, Mexico, Colombia, Germany |
| Price Range | $800K – $8.5M |
The McDonnell Douglas MD-80 is a twin-engine, narrow-body commercial airliner that revolutionized short to medium-range air travel during the 1980s and 1990s. Developed as an improved successor to the DC-9, the MD-80 featured advanced avionics, improved fuel efficiency, and enhanced passenger comfort with a stretched fuselage accommodating 130-180 passengers. The aircraft became a workhorse for major carriers including American Airlines, Delta, and numerous international operators. Known for its reliability and operational efficiency, the MD-80 series gained particular prominence in dense domestic route networks. The aircraft's distinctive T-tail configuration and Pratt & Whitney JT8D engines became iconic in commercial aviation. Most MD-80s have been retired from major carrier service, though some remain in operation with regional and charter carriers. The aircraft's reputation for dependability and reasonable operating costs has maintained interest in the secondary market, particularly for cargo conversion and specialized operations.
Maximum Speed: 544 mph (Mach 0.84)
Cruise Speed: 460 mph
Maximum Range: 2,060 nautical miles
Service Ceiling: 42,000 feet
Engines: 2x Pratt & Whitney JT8D turbofans
Maximum Takeoff Weight: 140,000 lbs
Typical Payload: 28,000 lbs