McDonnell Douglas MD-81

The McDonnell Douglas MD‑81 is a twin‑engine, short‑haul airliner that belongs to the MD‑80 family, a development of the original DC‑9. First rolled out in 1980 and entering service with American Airlines in 1981, the MD‑81 was built by McDonnell Douglas until the 1999 merger with Boeing. It features a length of 45.06 m, a wingspan of 32.8 m, and is powered by two Pratt & Whitney JT8D‑209 turbofan engines delivering 14,500 lbf thrust each. The aircraft can accommodate 155 passengers in a mixed‑class layout and has a range of roughly 2,250 nm, making it ideal for domestic and short‑international routes. Design improvements over the DC‑9 include a larger wing, increased fuel capacity, updated avionics, and quieter, more efficient engines. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s the MD‑81 became a workhorse for U.S. carriers, regional airlines, and charter operators, contributing to the expansion of point‑to‑point service and enabling lower operating costs per seat mile. Although production ended in 1999, many MD‑81s remain in service, especially in cargo and low‑cost carrier fleets, illustrating the model’s lasting impact on commercial aviation. Its robust airframe and straightforward maintenance have made it a popular choice for airlines seeking reliable performance with minimal downtime.

McDonnell Douglas

McDonnell Douglas MD-81

Classification

Production & History

Design & Classification