About the MCDONNELL DOUGLAS MD-90-30
The McDonnell Douglas MD-90-30 is a member of the MD-90 family of aircraft, which was developed as an advancement of the successful MD-80 series. Manufactured by McDonnell Douglas, and later by Boeing after the companies merged in 1997, the MD-90-30 was first announced in November 1989 and took to the skies for the first time on February 22, 1993. Entering commercial service in 1995 with Delta Air Lines, the MD-90-30 was positioned as a modern, fuel-efficient aircraft with significant improvements over its predecessors, targeting the narrow-body mid-range market segment.
The motivation behind the MD-90-30's development was a combination of market demand for more efficient aircraft and the need to compete with newly developed models from rivals such as the Airbus A320 and the Boeing 737 Next Generation. The MD-90-30 was designed to offer airlines an attractive solution with newer technology, enhanced fuel efficiency, and improved passenger comfort. This aircraft was powered by the IAE V2500 high-bypass turbofan engines, which offered a quieter and more economical operation compared to the JT8D engines used in the MD-80 series. Additionally, the MD-90-30 featured a slightly stretched fuselage, updated avionics, and improved aerodynamics.
Key Features and Capabilities
The MD-90-30 found its niche in serving short to medium-haul routes, providing airlines with a capacity of about 153 passengers configured in a typical two-class seating arrangement, or up to 172 passengers in an all-economy layout. As such, it suited high-demand domestic routes, particularly in the U.S. market.
One of the key benefits of the MD-90-30 was its cost efficiency. The advanced engines and aerodynamic enhancements resulted in lower operating costs, which made it a favorite among airlines looking to optimize their fleets. Additionally, reduced noise levels from the IAE V2500 engines allowed the MD-90-30 to operate under stricter noise regulations, broadening its appeal for use in noise-sensitive airports.
Market Position and Use Cases
Production of the MD-90-30 was relatively short-lived, ceasing in 2000 after the manufacture of 116 units. Despite its abbreviated production run, the MD-90-30 remains a significant model in the lineage of McDonnell Douglas aircraft, continuing to serve some airlines well into the 2010s.