Aviation-Guide - Flipbook - Page 11
McDonnell Douglas MD‑87
PHOTO © JEREMY ULLOA
Original Owner
McDonnell Douglas launched development of the
MD-87 on January 3 1985, following the placement of
launch orders from Finnair and Austrian in December
1984. First flight took place on December 4 1986 and
US FAA certification was granted on October 21 1987.
The MD-87 is a shortened version of its predecessors.
Mission
IONS:
Cruise Speed:
400 mph
Gallon Capacity:
3,000
Manufacturer
McDonnell Douglas
Type I Airtanker
This aircraft can operate from most existing Airtanker
Bases with little or no impact. Large Air Tankers (LATs),
like the MD-87 can be used in challenging terrain.
The MD-87 is relatively agile for its size and requires
some planning by the supervising aircraft to provide
a stabilized path for delivery. Flight paths for pattern
speeds of 130 to 140 knots on final should be planned.
S P E C I F I C AT
Crew
Pilot, Co-pilot
11