McDonnell Douglas DC-9

The DC-9, developed by McDonnell Douglas, was designed to meet the growing demand for a short-to-medium range jet airliner. The aircraft made its maiden flight in 1965 and quickly gained popularity due to its efficiency and reliability.

The Key Features of the DC-9

The DC-9 was known for its innovative design and advanced features. With its twin-engine configuration and rear-mounted engines, the aircraft offered improved fuel efficiency and reduced noise levels. The DC-9 was also equipped with a state-of-the-art avionics system, making it one of the most technologically advanced aircraft of its time.

The Impact of the DC-9

The DC-9 revolutionized short-haul air travel by providing airlines with a cost-effective solution for regional routes. Its versatility and performance made it a popular choice for both passenger and cargo transportation. The aircraft's success paved the way for the development of the later McDonnell Douglas MD-80 series, which further solidified the company's position in the market.

The Legacy of the DC-9

Even though production of the DC-9 ceased in 1982, the aircraft continues to serve as a workhorse in many airlines around the world. Its durability and efficiency have stood the test of time, with several DC-9s still operating today. The aircraft's impact on the aviation industry can still be felt, as it set the stage for the development of subsequent generations of regional airliners.

In Conclusion

The McDonnell Douglas DC-9 holds a special place in the history of aviation. Its innovative design, advanced features, and lasting impact make it a true legend in the industry. From its humble beginnings to its enduring legacy, the DC-9 has proven to be a remarkable aircraft that has stood the test of time.

Variant	-15	-21	-32	-41	-51
Cockpit crew^: 66	Two
1-class seating^: 15–18	90Y@31-32"		115Y@31-33"	125@31-34"	135@32-33"
Exit limit^: 80	109		127	128	139
Cargo^: 4	600 ft³ / 17.0m³		895 ft³ / 25.3m³	1,019 ft³ / 28.9m³	1,174 ft³ / 33.2m³
Length^: 5–9	104 ft 4.8in / 31.82 m		119 ft 3.6 in / 36.36 m	125 ft 7.2 in / 38.28 m	133 ft 7 in / 40.72m
Wingspan^: 10–14	89 ft 4.8 in / 27.25 m	93 ft 3.6 in / 28.44 m			93 ft 4.2 in / 28.45 m
Height^: 10–14	27 ft 7 in / 8.4 m		27 ft 9 in / 8.5 m	28 ft 5 in / 8.7 m	28 ft 9 in / 8.8 m
Width	131.6 in / 334.3 cm Fuselage,^: 23 122.4 in / 311 cm Cabin^: 24
Max. takeoff wt.^: 4	90,700 lb / 41,141 kg	98,000 lb / 45,359 kg	108,000 lb / 48,988 kg	114,000 lb / 51,710 kg	121,000 lb / 54,885 kg
Empty^: 4	49,162 lb / 22,300 kg	52,644 lb / 23,879 kg	56,855 lb / 25,789 kg	61,335 lb / 27,821 kg	64,675 lb / 29,336 kg
Fuel^: 4	24,743 lb / 11,223 kg		24,649 lb / 11,181 kg
Engine (2×)	JT8D-1/5/7/9/11/15/17	-9/11	-1/5/7/9/11/15/17	-9/11/15/17	-15/17
Thrust (2×)	-1/7: 14,000 lbf (62 kN), -5/-9: 12,250 lbf (54.5 kN), -11: 15,000 lbf (67 kN), -15: 15,500 lbf (69 kN), -17: 16,000 lbf (71 kN)
Ceiling^: 67	35,000 ft (11,000 m)
MMo	Mach 0.84 (484 kn; 897 km/h)
Range^: 36–45	1,300 nmi (2,400 km)	1,500 nmi (2,800 km)	1,500 nmi (2,800 km)	1,200 nmi (2,200 km)	1,300 nmi (2,400 km)

Airplanes24.net

The Aviation Portal