McDonnell Douglas DC-8-73

The re-engined classic jetliner built for improved fuel efficiency.

Overview

McDonnell Douglas United States ICAO: DC87 1969–1988 Active $10 million (1998)

The McDonnell Douglas DC-8-73 was part of the Super 70 series, incorporating more efficient engines. Introduced in the 1980s, it extended the operational life of earlier DC-8 airframes. The aircraft served in passenger and cargo roles.

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Specifications

Units
Engine
4 × CFM 56-2 C6
Engine type
Turbofan
Thrust
4 × 22,000 lbf · 98 kN
Avionics
Dual Collins VHF 21D, HF 628T-1 , TDR-94D
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
259
Crew
—
Cabin width
11 ft 6 in  ·  3.50 m
Cabin height
7 ft 3 in  ·  2.21 m
Cabin length
164 ft 1 in  ·  50.00 m
Exterior length
187 ft 0 in  ·  57.00 m
Tail height
43 ft 0 in  ·  13.10 m
Fuselage diameter
12 ft 3 in  ·  3.74 m
Wing span
142 ft 5 in  ·  43.40 m
Baggage volume
2,472 ft³  ·  70.0 m³
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
355,000 lb  ·  161,000 kg
Max landing weight
275,000 lb  ·  124,500 kg
Max payload
107,500 lb  ·  48,800 kg
Fuel capacity
24,250 gal · 91,800 L · 73,500 kg (Jet A)
Max cruise speed
488 kt  ·  562 mph  ·  904 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
145 kt  ·  167 mph  ·  269 km/h
Range
4,500 nm  ·  5,180 mi  ·  8,330 km
Fuel burn
—
Ceiling
42,000 ft  ·  12,800 m
Rate of climb
2,200 ft/min  ·  11 m/s
Takeoff distance
10,000 ft  ·  3,050 m
Landing distance
6,550 ft  ·  2,000 m
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Astar Air Cargo McDonnell Douglas DC 8 73F

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Operational Context

McDonnell Douglas DC-8-73 — re-engined narrow-body jetliner

The DC-8-73 entered service in the early 1980s as part of the Super 70 upgrade program. Older DC-8 aircraft were retrofitted with new high-bypass engines and updated systems. The aircraft retained its long, narrow fuselage and swept wing.

Powered by four CFM56 turbofan engines producing approximately 22,000 pounds of thrust (98 kN) each, the DC-8-73 cruised at around 460 knots (852 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight exceeded 350,000 pounds (158,757 kg). Passenger capacity varied depending on configuration, with many aircraft later used for cargo operations.

The Super 70 upgrades improved fuel efficiency and noise performance. Many DC-8-73 aircraft continued operating for decades after introduction. The variant represents the final major evolution of the DC-8 family.