About the MCDONNELL DOUGLAS CORPORATION MD-88
The McDonnell Douglas MD-88 is an American twin-engine, short- to medium-range, single-aisle commercial aircraft that was part of the MD-80 series. The MD-80 series itself was developed as an improved version of the Douglas DC-9. The MD-88 took to the skies for the first time on August 15, 1987, and remained in production until 1999 while being delivered to major carriers until 2000. This aircraft represents one of the final iterations in the legacy of the McDonnell Douglas aircraft models before the company was merged with Boeing in 1997.
The development of the MD-88 was driven by the need to create a highly reliable, efficient aircraft that could serve busy short- to medium-haul routes. The MD-88 was tailored to airlines looking for an aircraft that offered improved aerodynamics, quieter engines, and modern avionics compared to its predecessors. This model included features like an EFIS (Electronic Flight Instrument System) cockpit, which was advanced for its time, providing increased situational awareness and reducing pilot workload.
Key Features and Capabilities
The market niche for the MD-88 primarily involved domestic routes within the United States as well as some international flights to nearby destinations. It served as a workhorse for many airlines, including Delta Air Lines, which was one of its largest operators. The MD-88 could carry up to 172 passengers, depending on configuration, making it versatile enough for various route demands.
One of the significant benefits of the MD-88 was its cost efficiency. The more modern engines and aerodynamic improvements allowed for better fuel efficiency compared to older models. Furthermore, it provided airlines with the option to phase out less efficient and noisier aircraft in favor of a more passenger-friendly model. Despite the aircraft's eventual phase-out in favor of newer, even more efficient models like the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320, the MD-88 served many airlines effectively for decades, establishing a storied place in the history of commercial aviation.