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McDonnell Douglas MD-87 Airliner Specifications and Charter Rates

The McDonnell Douglas MD-87 is a twin-engine airliner designed for private group charters, offering a perfect solution for large parties who demand comfort, privacy, and nonstop range. With seating for up to 130 passengers, this aircraft delivers a powerful blend of commercial-scale capacity and VIP-grade amenities, making it an exceptional choice for executive shuttles, sports teams, and luxury tour groups.


Ideal for mid- to long-haul flights, the MD-87 stands out for its robust performance, reliable reputation, and capability to reach a wide array of airports worldwide. This profile covers detailed specifications, interior configurations, range capabilities, indicative charter pricing, and answers to the most frequently asked questions by discerning travelers considering this airliner for their next private journey.

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McDonnell Douglas MD-87 Overview

The MD-87 belongs to the airliner category, engineered to deliver high-capacity travel solutions for private groups and organizations. Its thoughtfully designed cabin can be configured to accommodate up to 130 guests, featuring either standard airline seating or bespoke executive layouts for VIP missions. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney JT8D-217C engines, the MD-87 reaches a cruise speed of 473 knots, with a service ceiling of 37,000 feet—allowing it to operate above weather and commercial traffic for a smooth, uninterrupted flight experience.


Corporate operators and private charter clients value the MD-87 for its reliability, operational efficiency, and flexibility in catering to both luxury and high-density missions. Its proven performance and generous range make it a trusted choice for cross-country and transcontinental routes, while its robust design ensures dependable service even under demanding schedules.


For discerning groups seeking an airliner that combines the scale of commercial aircraft with the exclusivity of private charter, the MD-87 is a compelling, versatile solution that sets the standard for large-capacity travel.

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McDonnell Douglas MD-87 Specifications

The figures below summarize the performance and dimensions that matter most when you are matching an aircraft to a trip. They reflect typical configurations; exact numbers vary with weight, weather, and how a given aircraft is equipped.

Aircraft class:

Airliner

Passenger capacity:

Up to 114 (typical), 130 maximum

Crew:

2 pilots, 3 flight attendants

Range:

Approximately 4400 nautical miles (around 5061 statute miles)

High-speed cruise:

473 knots (about 544 mph)

Long-range cruise:

Approximately 430 knots

Service ceiling:

37000 fee

Engines:

Two Pratt & Whitney JT8D-217C turbofans

Thrust:

Roughly 20800 lbf per engine

Takeoff distance:

About 7220 feet

Landing distance:

About 5900 feet

Average fuel burn:

Around 1200 gallons per hour

Baggage capacity:

Approximately 26 cubic feet

First delivered:

Late 1980s

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The figures below summarize the performance and dimensions that matter most when you are matching an aircraft to a trip. They reflect typical configurations; exact numbers vary with weight, weather, and how a given aircraft is equipped.

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McDonnell Douglas MD-87 Range and Performance

With a range of approximately 4,400 nautical miles, the MD-87 is capable of nonstop flights between major business and leisure destinations such as New York to Los Angeles, Miami to Seattle, or London to Dubai. This endurance empowers large groups to travel efficiently, eliminating the need for fuel stops on most long domestic and select international routes. | The aircraft's cruise speed of 473 knots ensures swift point-to-point travel, while its high service ceiling allows for smooth operations above turbulent weather. The MD-87 requires about 7,220 feet for takeoff and 5,900 feet for landing, giving it access to primary airports as well as many secondary airfields with sufficient runway length. | For private charter clients, the MD-87 is a proven performer, combining the reliability of a commercial airliner with the exclusive flexibility of bespoke private travel and the ability to keep large groups together from departure to arrival.

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McDonnell Douglas MD-87 Cabin Experience and Interior

The MD-87 offers a spacious, flexible cabin designed to accommodate up to 130 passengers in standard airline configuration or fewer in VIP layouts. Cabin height and width provide ample headroom and aisle space, allowing guests to move comfortably during flight and enjoy a relaxed, social environment. | Operators often outfit the interior with a mix of premium leather seating, custom lighting, and advanced entertainment systems. Executive versions can include lounge areas, private meeting spaces, and enhanced galley service for elevated onboard experiences. | The aircraft features a generous baggage compartment of about 26 cubic feet—ideal for group luggage, sports equipment, or specialty cargo. Multiple lavatories and attentive crew service ensure that even long journeys remain comfortable and convenient, whether for business or leisure.

McDonnell Douglas MD-87 Charter Cost and Hourly Rates

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Chartering a McDonnell Douglas MD-87 typically runs in the range of $15000 to $22000 per flight hour, though the figure you are quoted depends on several factors. Rates move with the route, the season, repositioning (or ferry) time, airport fees, crew costs, and how a specific aircraft is equipped. Peak travel periods and one-way trips that leave an aircraft far from its base tend to sit at the higher end, while round trips and flights that align with an operator's existing schedule can come in lower.

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It also helps to understand how charter pricing is structured. Most quotes are built around occupied flight hours plus those repositioning costs, landing and handling fees, taxes, and crew expenses. Because Jettly is a charter marketplace rather than an aircraft operator, you can compare live quotes from multiple FAA Part 121/Part 135 and book the option that fits your route and budget.

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Empty-leg flights, the discounted repositioning trips that operators are keen to fill, can also bring the cost of a McDonnell Douglas MD-87 down significantly when the timing works in your favor. For an exact, current price on your specific trip, request a quote, and you will see real availability rather than an estimate.

Who Should Charter the McDonnell Douglas MD-87?

The McDonnell Douglas MD-87 fits a wide set of missions, which is part of why it stays busy. It is a strong match for:

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Small executive teams traveling together to a meeting, site visit, or conference

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Regional and many transcontinental business trips that need to be completed in a single day

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Families or groups of up to eight heading to a vacation or event

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Travelers carrying bulkier baggage, such as golf clubs or ski gear

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Anyone who values flexible airport access and a stand-up cabin over the lowest possible price

The MD-87 is ideal for organizations, sports teams, bands, and VIP groups requiring private, nonstop travel for over 100 guests. For smaller groups or shorter routes, a midsize or super-midsize jet may be more economical, but for large parties seeking privacy, schedule control, and group cohesion, the MD-87 offers unmatched value and flexibility.

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How the McDonnell Douglas MD-87 Compares to Other Airliner

The MD-87 stands out among airliners for its unique blend of capacity, range, and operational flexibility. Compared to similar aircraft such as the Boeing 737-500 or Airbus A319, the MD-87 offers a slightly smaller cabin but compensates with impressive range and a proven track record in both commercial and private charter settings.


Its efficient engines and aerodynamic design contribute to lower operating costs, while its versatile interior supports a wide range of mission profiles—from high-density group travel to bespoke VIP experiences.


For clients seeking a reliable airliner that can adapt to a variety of charter needs and deliver both comfort and performance, the MD-87 is a compelling choice among its peers.

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McDonnell Douglas MD-87 History and Background

The McDonnell Douglas MD-87 debuted in the late 1980s as the shortest variant of the iconic MD-80 series, crafted to deliver the same reliable performance as its siblings but with a smaller footprint and longer range.


Engineers developed the MD-87 to serve both high-frequency regional routes and longer-haul missions, incorporating advanced avionics, upgraded engines, and aerodynamic enhancements for greater efficiency.


Over the years, the MD-87 has found a second life in the private charter market, where its unique blend of space, performance, and proven dependability have made it a popular choice for VIP operations, government flights, and corporate shuttles worldwide.


Today, the MD-87 remains a premier option for groups who value reliability, comfort, and the ability to travel together in style without compromise.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Passengers Can the McDonnell Douglas MD-87 Carry?

The MD-87 typically offers seating for 114 to 130 passengers, with interior layouts tailored to client needs—ranging from standard airline seating to custom executive or VIP configurations.

What Is the Range of the McDonnell Douglas MD-87?

The McDonnell Douglas MD-87 has a range of approximately 4400 nautical miles, or roughly 5061 statute miles. That is enough to fly most regional routes and many transcontinental trips nonstop, with the longest coast-to-coast legs occasionally needing a brief fuel stop depending on winds and load.

How Fast Does the McDonnell Douglas MD-87 Fly?

Its high-speed cruise is 473 knots (about 544 mph), with a long-range cruise near 430 knots. The aircraft's 37000-foot service ceiling lets it fly above most weather and traffic for a smoother, more direct trip.

How Much Does It Cost to Charter a McDonnell Douglas MD-87?

Charter rates generally fall between roughly $15000 and $22000 per flight hour, depending on the route, season, repositioning, and fees. Because Jettly is a marketplace, you can compare live quotes from multiple Part 135 operators and book the best option for your trip; empty-leg flights can lower the cost further.

Does the Hawker McDonnell Douglas MD-87 Have a Stand-up Cabin?

Yes. The MD-87 features a spacious cabin with ample headroom and aisle width, allowing guests to move about freely during flight. Multiple lavatories and attentive crew service further enhance passenger comfort on longer journeys.

Is the McDonnell Douglas MD-87 Good for Transcontinental Flights?

Absolutely. The MD-87’s range covers most nonstop U.S. cross-country and select transatlantic routes, making it an excellent choice for long-distance group travel without the need for fuel stops.

Jettly gives you access to a global marketplace of more than 23,000 aircraft, including McDonnell Douglas MD-87 jets operated by vetted FAA Part 121/Part 135 Part 135 carriers. Compare live quotes, check real availability, and book with full concierge support, whether you are planning a single regional hop or a recurring travel schedule.

Enter your route and dates to get instant pricing on the McDonnell Douglas MD-87, or speak with our team about empty-leg deals and membership options that can bring your cost per trip down even further.

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