McDonnell Douglas MD-88

The McDonnell Douglas MD‑88 is a stretched, twin‑engine narrow‑body jet that belongs to the highly successful MD‑80 family, itself a derivative of the original DC‑9 series. First rolled out in 1986 and entering service with American Airlines in 1987, the MD‑88 was built until 1999, with a total of 360 aircraft produced. It incorporates more powerful Pratt & Whitney JT8D-219 turbofan engines, a modernized avionics suite and a redesigned cockpit that shares common type rating with the MD‑90, allowing pilots to transition between models without additional training. The aircraft features increased fuel capacity, a higher maximum take‑off weight, and improved noise‑abatement technology that met stricter Stage 3 standards. Throughout the 1990s the MD‑88 became a workhorse for major U.S. carriers, providing reliable short‑ and medium‑haul service on routes ranging from domestic coast‑to‑coast flights to Caribbean charters. Its operational flexibility, relatively low acquisition cost and commonality with other MD‑80 variants extended the economic life of many airlines’ fleets. Although newer, more efficient models have largely replaced it, the MD‑88 remains a notable example of incremental design evolution that helped sustain the viability of narrow‑body jets during a period of rapid industry change.

McDonnell Douglas

McDonnell Douglas MD-88

Classification

Production & History

Design & Classification