The MD-80 series was a stretched version of the Douglas DC-9 Series 50 with more powerful and efficient engines and the prototype MD-80, which was originally designated the Super 80, first flew in 1979. The MD-81 was the first production model and entered service with Swissair in 1980. The MD-82 first flew in 1981 powered by 2x 20,000lb.s.t. (89.0kN) Pratt & Whitneys and with a maximum take-off weight of 149,500lb (67,810kg) and a range of 2360miles (3798km). The MD-82 was also built in China by the Shanghai Aviation Industrial Corporation who delivered 30 examples. The MD-83 first flew in 1984 powered by 2x 21,000lb.s.t.(93.4kN) Pratt & Whitneys and with a maximum take-off weight of 160,000lb (72,575kg) and a range of 2880miles (4635km). This is the extended range version which has two extra fuel tanks in the cargo compartment and it first entered service in 1985. The MD-88 first flew in 1987 powered by 2x 21,000 lb.s.t.(93.4kN) Pratt & Whitneys and a maximum take-off weight of 149,500lb (67,810kg) and a range of 3013miles (4850km). The MD-88 features an increased use of composites in its structure and a redesigned cabin interior for 142 passengers. It entered service in 1988 and the main customer has been Delta Air Lines. An example of the MD-88 is illustrated below.

                                   LV-VGB                    c/n 53446                     USA    Photo: John Chalmers

172 seat medium range airliner first flown in 1979

Engines: 2x 18,500lb.s.t(82.3kN) P&W JT8D-209                                                                            Length: 147’10"(45.06m)                                                                                     Height: 29’7"(9.01m)Wingspan: 107’10"(32.87m)                                                                                       No.built: 1190+ Range: 1800miles(2897km)                                                             Cruising speed: 505mph(813kmh) Empty weight: 77,888lb(35,329kg)                                 Maximum take-off weight: 140,000lb(63,505kg)

An MD-82 is shown below.

I-DATL      c/n 53229            Photo: John Chalmers

An MD-88 is shown below

N902DE               c/n 53379                                 

An MD-83 is shown below.

G-BNSB                 c/n 49658                               

                                      EC-EOZ                  c/n 49627