One of the most prolific aircraft types to ever fly for American Airlines, the McDonnell Douglas MD-80 series, reached the end of the line on September 4 when the carrier sent the last of its fleet on a major “sendoff” that saw 26 of what many call the “Mad Dog” on their last flights to be retired in Roswell, New Mexico.
American Airlines Retires Last of Legendary MD-80 Fleet
Key Takeaways:
- American Airlines retired its entire McDonnell Douglas MD-80 "Super 80" fleet on September 4, concluding 36 years of service for the aircraft type.
- The MD-80 was a prolific workhorse for American Airlines, making up nearly half of its fleet in 2004 and training over 10,000 pilots during its tenure.
- American Airlines opted to retire the MD-80s to avoid extensive maintenance costs and instead invest in newer, more modern aircraft.
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