MCDONNELL DOUGLAS MD-87 Specs refer to the specifications and technical details of the McDonnell Douglas MD-87, a twin-engine, single-aisle jet airliner. These specs encompass various aspects of the aircraft, including its dimensions, performance, capacity, and engine characteristics.
The MD-87 is renowned for its efficiency and reliability, making it a popular choice for short- to medium-haul flights. Understanding its specs is crucial for pilots, engineers, and aviation enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive overview of the aircraft’s capabilities and limitations.
In this article, we will delve into the key specs of the McDonnell Douglas MD-87, exploring its dimensions, performance, capacity, and engine specifications. We will also highlight the significance of these specs in ensuring the aircraft’s safe and efficient operation.
MCDONNELL DOUGLAS MD-87 Specs
The McDonnell Douglas MD-87 Specs encompass various crucial aspects that define the aircraft’s characteristics and capabilities. These key aspects include:
- Dimensions: Length 45.1 m (148 ft), Wingspan 32.8 m (107 ft 7 in)
- Performance: Max speed 905 km/h (562 mph), Range 3,798 km (2,360 mi)
- Capacity: Passengers 130-139, Cargo 18.4 m (650 ft)
- Engine: Two Pratt & Whitney JT8D-217/219 turbofan engines, each producing 21,000 lbf (93 kN) of thrust
- Avionics: Rockwell Collins Pro Line 4
- Weight: Max takeoff weight 61,235 kg (135,000 lb)
These specs collectively define the MD-87’s capabilities as a short- to medium-haul airliner. Its dimensions allow for efficient use of airport infrastructure, while its performance and range enable it to operate on various routes. The aircraft’s capacity and cargo volume make it suitable for both passenger and cargo transportation. The Pratt & Whitney JT8D engines provide reliable and efficient power, while the Rockwell Collins Pro Line 4 avionics suite enhances situational awareness and safety.
Dimensions
The dimensions of the McDonnell Douglas MD-87, with a length of 45.1 m (148 ft) and a wingspan of 32.8 m (107 ft 7 in), are crucial aspects of its specifications, influencing various factors related to its performance, efficiency, and operational capabilities.
- Airport Compatibility: The aircraft’s dimensions determine its compatibility with different airport infrastructures, including runway lengths, taxiways, and hangar facilities. The MD-87’s relatively compact size allows it to operate efficiently at a wide range of airports, including regional and smaller hubs.
- Maneuverability: The wingspan and overall dimensions play a role in the aircraft’s maneuverability, particularly during takeoff, landing, and in-flight adjustments. The MD-87’s moderate wingspan contributes to its agile handling characteristics.
- Passenger Capacity: The dimensions of the fuselage directly impact the aircraft’s passenger capacity. The MD-87’s spacious cabin, with a typical seating configuration of 130-139 passengers, provides a comfortable and efficient travel experience.
- Cargo Capacity: In addition to passenger capacity, the MD-87’s dimensions also influence its cargo capabilities. The aircraft’s cargo hold, with a volume of 18.4 m (650 ft), allows for the transportation of significant amounts of cargo, making it suitable for both passenger and cargo-oriented operations.
Overall, the dimensions of the McDonnell Douglas MD-87 are carefully designed to meet the requirements of short- to medium-haul operations, offering a balance between efficiency, capacity, and operational flexibility.
Performance
The performance specifications of the McDonnell Douglas MD-87, including its maximum speed of 905 km/h (562 mph) and range of 3,798 km (2,360 mi), are essential aspects of its capabilities, defining its suitability for various operational roles and mission profiles.
- Speed and Efficiency: The MD-87’s maximum speed of 905 km/h (562 mph) enables it to maintain high cruise speeds, reducing travel time and increasing overall efficiency. This performance is particularly advantageous on short- to medium-haul routes, where time-saving is crucial.
- Range and Flexibility: With a range of 3,798 km (2,360 mi), the MD-87 can operate on a wide range of routes without the need for refueling stops. This extended range provides airlines with flexibility in scheduling and allows for direct flights between city pairs that may not be feasible with aircraft having a shorter range.
- Operational Versatility: The combination of speed and range makes the MD-87 a versatile aircraft capable of fulfilling various roles. It can be utilized for both passenger and cargo transportation, adapting to changing market demands and operational requirements.
Overall, the performance specifications of the McDonnell Douglas MD-87, with its high speed and extended range, contribute to its operational efficiency, flexibility, and suitability for a diverse range of short- to medium-haul missions.
Capacity
The capacity of the McDonnell Douglas MD-87, with its ability to accommodate 130-139 passengers and 18.4 m (650 ft) of cargo, is a key aspect of its specifications, directly influencing its operational capabilities and suitability for various roles.
- Passenger Comfort and Capacity: The MD-87’s cabin configuration, with a typical seating arrangement of 130-139 passengers, offers a comfortable and efficient travel experience. The spacious cabin provides ample legroom and headroom, enhancing passenger comfort, particularly on short- to medium-haul flights.
- Cargo Flexibility: The MD-87’s cargo capacity of 18.4 m (650 ft) allows for the transportation of significant amounts of cargo, making it suitable for both passenger and cargo-oriented operations. This flexibility enables airlines to adapt to changing market demands and optimize their revenue streams.
- Operational Versatility: The combination of passenger and cargo capacity makes the MD-87 a versatile aircraft capable of fulfilling various roles. It can be used for scheduled passenger services, charter flights, or dedicated cargo operations, providing airlines with operational flexibility and the ability to meet diverse customer needs.
- Market Positioning: The MD-87’s capacity falls within the regional jet category, making it suitable for short- to medium-haul routes with moderate passenger demand. This positioning allows airlines to offer competitive fares and cater to specific market segments, such as business travelers and leisure passengers.
Overall, the capacity specifications of the McDonnell Douglas MD-87, with its focus on passenger comfort, cargo flexibility, operational versatility, and market positioning, contribute to its overall value and suitability for a wide range of operational roles.
Engine
The engine specifications of the McDonnell Douglas MD-87, featuring two Pratt & Whitney JT8D-217/219 turbofan engines, each producing 21,000 lbf (93 kN) of thrust, are a crucial aspect of the aircraft’s overall performance and capabilities. These engines play a vital role in determining the aircraft’s operating characteristics, efficiency, and safety.
The JT8D turbofan engines provide the MD-87 with the necessary thrust for takeoff, climb, and cruise flight. The high thrust output of 21,000 lbf per engine enables the aircraft to achieve its maximum speed of 905 km/h (562 mph) and maintain efficient cruising altitudes. The turbofan design incorporates a large fan at the front of the engine, which generates a high volume of airflow that bypasses the combustion chamber. This design improves fuel efficiency and reduces noise levels, making the MD-87 a more environmentally friendly aircraft.
The reliable and efficient operation of the JT8D engines is essential for the safety and performance of the MD-87. The engines undergo regular maintenance and inspections to ensure optimal functionality and minimize the risk of in-flight failures. Advanced engine monitoring systems monitor engine parameters in real-time, allowing for early detection and troubleshooting of any potential issues.
Overall, the engine specifications of the McDonnell Douglas MD-87, with its two Pratt & Whitney JT8D-217/219 turbofan engines, are critical in defining the aircraft’s performance, efficiency, and safety characteristics. Understanding these specifications is essential for pilots, engineers, and aviation enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive overview of the aircraft’s capabilities and limitations.
Avionics
The Rockwell Collins Pro Line 4 avionics suite is a key component of the McDonnell Douglas MD-87’s specifications, providing advanced navigation, communication, and flight management capabilities. This state-of-the-art avionics system enhances the aircraft’s safety, efficiency, and overall performance.
- Enhanced Situational Awareness: The Pro Line 4 system features large, multi-function displays that provide pilots with a comprehensive view of flight data, including navigation charts, weather information, and aircraft system status. This enhanced situational awareness reduces pilot workload and improves decision-making, particularly in challenging operating conditions.
- Integrated Navigation and Communication: The avionics suite seamlessly integrates navigation and communication systems, allowing pilots to access and manage flight plans, communicate with air traffic control, and monitor aircraft position and altitude with ease. This integration streamlines operations and reduces the risk of errors.
- Advanced Flight Management: The Pro Line 4 system includes advanced flight management capabilities that optimize aircraft performance and reduce fuel consumption. It can calculate optimal flight paths, monitor aircraft performance parameters, and provide guidance to pilots during all phases of flight.
- Reduced Pilot Workload: The user-friendly interface and automated systems of the Pro Line 4 avionics suite reduce pilot workload, allowing them to focus on critical tasks such as monitoring the aircraft and managing the flight path. This contributes to increased safety and efficiency during operation.
In summary, the Rockwell Collins Pro Line 4 avionics suite is an integral part of the McDonnell Douglas MD-87’s specifications, providing advanced capabilities that enhance safety, efficiency, and overall performance. It represents a significant advancement in avionics technology and contributes to the aircraft’s position as a reliable and capable short- to medium-haul airliner.
Weight
The maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 61,235 kg (135,000 lb) is a crucial aspect of the McDonnell Douglas MD-87’s specifications. It represents the maximum allowable weight of the aircraft at the commencement of its takeoff roll.
The MTOW is determined by various factors, including the aircraft’s structural limitations, engine thrust, and safety regulations. It directly influences the aircraft’s takeoff performance, climb rate, and overall flight characteristics.
A higher MTOW allows the aircraft to carry more passengers, cargo, or fuel, increasing its payload capacity and revenue potential. However, it also affects the aircraft’s takeoff distance, fuel consumption, and operating costs.
Understanding the MTOW is essential for pilots,, and maintenance personnel. It helps ensure the aircraft is operated within its safe and efficient limits, preventing overloading and potential hazards.
In summary, the maximum takeoff weight of 61,235 kg (135,000 lb) is a critical component of the McDonnell Douglas MD-87 Specs, influencing its payload capacity, takeoff performance, and overall operational characteristics.
FAQs on McDonnell Douglas MD-87 Specs
This section addresses frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to the specifications of the McDonnell Douglas MD-87 aircraft, providing concise and informative answers.
Question 1: What is the maximum takeoff weight of the MD-87?
The maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of the MD-87 is 61,235 kg (135,000 lb). This weight limit is determined by structural considerations, engine thrust, and safety regulations.
Question 2: What type of engines power the MD-87?
The MD-87 is equipped with two Pratt & Whitney JT8D-217/219 turbofan engines, each producing 21,000 lbf (93 kN) of thrust. These engines provide the necessary power for takeoff, climb, and cruising flight.
Question 3: What is the range of the MD-87?
The MD-87 has a range of 3,798 km (2,360 mi), enabling it to operate on short- to medium-haul routes without the need for refueling stops.
Question 4: How many passengers can the MD-87 accommodate?
In a typical passenger configuration, the MD-87 can accommodate between 130 and 139 passengers, providing a comfortable and efficient travel experience.
Question 5: What is the wingspan of the MD-87?
The wingspan of the MD-87 is 32.8 m (107 ft 7 in). This wingspan contributes to the aircraft’s maneuverability and stability during takeoff, landing, and in-flight operations.
Question 6: What avionics suite is featured in the MD-87?
The MD-87 is equipped with the Rockwell Collins Pro Line 4 avionics suite, which provides advanced navigation, communication, and flight management capabilities, enhancing situational awareness and overall safety.
Overall, the McDonnell Douglas MD-87 is a versatile and efficient aircraft known for its reliability and performance. Understanding its specifications is essential for pilots, engineers, and aviation enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive overview of its capabilities and limitations.
Refer to the aircraft’s flight manual and technical documentation for further details and specific operating procedures.
Tips Related to “MCDONNELL DOUGLAS MD-87 Specs”
To effectively utilize the specifications of the McDonnell Douglas MD-87 and ensure its safe and efficient operation, consider the following tips:
Tip 1: Understand Weight and Balance Limitations:
Thoroughly comprehend the aircraft’s weight and balance limitations, as exceeding these limits can compromise stability and control. Ensure proper weight distribution and adherence to the maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) to maintain optimal flight characteristics.
Tip 2: Monitor Engine Performance:
Regularly monitor engine performance parameters, including thrust output, fuel consumption, and exhaust gas temperature. Early detection of any anomalies or deviations from normal operating ranges allows for timely maintenance and prevents potential in-flight issues.
Tip 3: Utilize Avionics Capabilities:
Maximize the capabilities of the Rockwell Collins Pro Line 4 avionics suite. Utilize its navigation, communication, and flight management features to enhance situational awareness, reduce pilot workload, and optimize flight efficiency.
Tip 4: Adhere to Maintenance Schedules:
Strictly adhere to the recommended maintenance schedules and intervals outlined in the aircraft’s technical documentation. Regular inspections, servicing, and component replacements ensure the aircraft’s continued airworthiness and reliability.
Tip 5: Train Crew Thoroughly:
Provide comprehensive training to flight crews on the specific handling characteristics, systems operation, and emergency procedures of the MD-87. Well-trained crews can respond effectively to various scenarios and maximize the aircraft’s performance.
Tip 6: Optimize Payload and Range:
Carefully consider the payload-range relationship when planning flights. Balancing passenger or cargo load with fuel requirements ensures efficient operation and avoids exceeding the aircraft’s capabilities.
Tip 7: Utilize Performance Charts and Data:
Refer to the aircraft’s performance charts and data to determine optimal takeoff and landing speeds, climb rates, and fuel consumption under varying conditions. This information aids in decision-making and enhances flight safety.
Tip 8: Seek Professional Advice When Needed:
In cases of uncertainty or complex operational scenarios, don’t hesitate to consult with experienced pilots, engineers, or aviation professionals. Their insights can provide valuable guidance and ensure the safe and efficient utilization of the MD-87.
By following these tips and adhering to the aircraft’s specifications and operating procedures, pilots and operators can maximize the performance, safety, and longevity of the McDonnell Douglas MD-87.
Remember, the provided tips serve as general guidelines, and specific operational procedures may vary depending on the aircraft’s variant and prevailing conditions. Always refer to the aircraft’s flight manual and other relevant documentation for authoritative information.
Conclusion
In summary, the McDonnell Douglas MD-87’s specifications encompass a range of critical aspects that define its performance, capacity, and operational capabilities. Understanding these specifications is essential for pilots, engineers, and aviation enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive overview of the aircraft’s capabilities and limitations.
The MD-87’s efficient design, reliable engines, advanced avionics, and adherence to safety regulations make it a versatile and capable aircraft for short- to medium-haul operations. Its balanced combination of passenger capacity, cargo flexibility, and range enables airlines to cater to diverse market demands and optimize revenue streams.
As the aviation industry continues to evolve, the MD-87’s specifications remain a testament to the ingenuity and engineering prowess that shaped the development of modern commercial aircraft. Its legacy as a reliable and efficient workhorse will endure for years to come.