The DC-9's Influence On Modern Aviation

When Wilbur and Orville Wright achieved the first controlled flight in 1903, they never expected supersonic flights, large cargo shipments, or military use (“Wright Brothers”). In only 100 years, aviation has developed into a diverse trade. Vast amounts of innovation have led to the development of the jet engine, helicopters, and aerial refueling. Other innovations and designs have gone unnoticed to the public eye, yet they are major contributors to modern aviation. An example is the McDonnell Douglas DC-9. The DC-9 was first produced in 1965 as a short range airliner designed for short, frequent flights (“McDonnell Douglas DC-9 flies.”). The DC-9 proved useful for small airports or airports with limited ground services (“McDonnell Douglas DC-9”). It boasted two rear mounted Pratt and

The DC-9 overcame a company change to become an influential aircraft in modern aviation. While the DC-9 family is no longer being produced, many continue to fly. The DC-9 no longer flies as a commercial airliner, but remaining frames have been converted to cargo freighters. MD-80s continue to fly commercially, but in limited use. Remaining frames have also been converted to cargo. Over 100 717s continue to fly commercial flights(“McDonnell Douglas DC-9”). Airframes converted to cargo are the backbone to many smaller cargo companies.

In over 50 years, the DC-9 family has revolutionized economy travel and small cargo transport. Innovations in fuel efficiency and maintenance has led to lower cost commercial travel and reliable aircraft resistant to breakdowns. As a Line Service Technician at Tri State Aero, I have had the privilege of working with the DC-9 family extensively. They continue to be a reliable cargo freighter at over 50 years old, and a comfortable airliner for patrons not willing to spend an arm and a leg for commercial