MD11
Manufacturer
McDonnell Douglas
Introduction To Service
1990
Aircraft Status
In cargo service
Aircraft Use
Passenger And Cargo Aircraft
Fun Facts
- Tri-Jet Design: The MD-11 is a tri-jet aircraft, featuring three engines—two mounted on the wings and one at the rear of the fuselage. This design was intended to provide increased performance and efficiency.
- Extended Range: The MD-11 was designed for long-haul flights and could travel up to approximately 6,900 nautical miles (12,800 kilometers), making it suitable for transcontinental and intercontinental routes.
- First Flight: The MD-11 made its first flight on January 10, 1990, and entered commercial service with Finnair on December 4, 1990. It was an advanced development of the earlier DC-10 series.
- High Capacity: The MD-11 could typically carry between 240 to 285 passengers, depending on the seating configuration, with a spacious cabin layout that included a 3-3-3 or 3-4-3 arrangement in economy class.
- Advanced Avionics: The MD-11 was equipped with a modern avionics suite, including fly-by-wire technology, which provided enhanced control and automated systems for more precise flight management.
- Freighter Variants: The MD-11 was also produced in a dedicated freighter version, known as the MD-11F, which featured a large cargo hold and was used extensively for air cargo operations.
- Notable Operators: The MD-11 was used by several major airlines around the world, including United Airlines, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, and Japan Airlines, demonstrating its versatility and global appeal.
- Unique Tail Design: The MD-11’s tail features a distinctive design with a large, high-mounted horizontal stabilizer, which contributes to the aircraft’s stability and performance during flight.
- Quiet Operation: Despite being a tri-jet, the MD-11 was designed with noise reduction in mind, featuring quieter engines and advanced soundproofing to provide a more comfortable cabin environment.
- Retirement and Legacy: While production of the MD-11 ended in 2000, the aircraft continues to be used in various roles, particularly in cargo operations. It remains an important part of aviation history due to its technological advancements and design innovations.
These fun facts highlight the McDonnell Douglas MD-11’s unique design features, performance capabilities, and its impact on both passenger and cargo aviation.
