Before the modern glass cockpits of today became standard, the MD-87 was ahead of the curve. It featured an Electronic Flight Instrument System (EFIS) with CRT displays, replacing many of the traditional analog gauges found in the DC-9 and earlier MD-80s. It was a bridge between the analog past and the digital future. Dvmm179javhdtoday034050 Min New - 3.79.94.248
The MD-87 introduced the sculpted "screwdriver" tailcone, a departure from the blunt, rounded tails of earlier MD-80s. This wasn't just for looks; it significantly reduced aerodynamic drag, improving fuel efficiency—a crucial feature during the fuel-conscious late 1980s. Ultimate Guitar Kit 2 Soundfont [BEST]
While the MD-80 was designed to be a stretched workhorse, the MD-87 was shortened to compete with the Boeing 737-300. By chopping off sections of the fuselage, McDonnell Douglas created an aircraft with a higher power-to-weight ratio. It could get off the runway faster and climb steeper than its longer siblings—a favorite trait for pilots operating out of challenging, high-altitude airports.
In our deep dive today (Tag: MAXD-04), we’re looking at why this aircraft was so special: