Last KLM MD-11 flight nears

Times are difficult for the older widebody airliners. Not only many Boeing 747s and Airbus A300s are withdrawn from service, but also McDonnell Douglas MD-11s. Only one airline still flies this three-engined widebody on passenger services and that is KLM. But this will not last long. On October 25 the MD-11 will make its last flight for the Dutch carrier.

At this moment only four MD-11s are still in KLM-service. The first MD-11 was delivered to KLM in December 1993, the PH-KCA, and the airline operated a total of ten. KLM has always been a Douglas customer. From the DC-2, introduced in 1934, it flew all Douglas Commercials until the DC-10, plus the MD-11. As only airline it flew the DC-5, during World War 2.

 According to KLM the MD-11 needs too much fuel by today's standards and it becomes difficult to find enough spare parts. The MD-11s will be replaced by the Airbus A350 and the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The new aircraft have not been delivered yet, but until they come Airbus A330s and Boeing 777s will fly the former MD-11-routes.

The MD-11 freighter remains in service with Air France-KLM Group partner Martinair.

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