McDonnell Douglas MD-11

The McDonnell Douglas MD-11 is a large, long-range trijet wide-body airliner developed as an advanced derivative of the DC-10. It entered airline service in 1990 and featured a stretched fuselage, winglets, advanced avionics, and improved fuel efficiency compared to its predecessor. Despite initial promise, the MD-11 fell short of its advertised performance and range targets, contributing to disappointing sales as airlines increasingly preferred twin-engine alternatives such as the Boeing 777. McDonnell Douglas merged with Boeing in 1997, and passenger MD-11 production effectively wound down, with the final deliveries occurring in the early 2000s. While largely retired from passenger service, the MD-11 found a strong second life as a freighter. FedEx Express and Lufthansa Cargo operate significant fleets, taking advantage of the aircraft's large cargo volume and long range. As of the mid-2020s, the type continues in active freighter service worldwide.