The Boeing 717 is a re-badged MD-95. Which is a variant of the MD-80 series aircraft. They all have their origins in the DC-9, which entered service in 1965.
I loved the 717. Flew a number of them with AirTran from GPT to ATL when these were brand new. On one flight the captain announced that it was the fifth day in service for the aircraft we were flying. Delta is currently flying the 717 GPT-ATL.
I flew aa AirTran 717 on IND-ATL for business once. Loved the heck out of that flight. Remember it having satellite radio, which was new at the time, and even though I had my iRiver triangle MP3 player (with about 20-30 songs of highly reduced quality to fit them in) I listened to the radio. It was a treat.
As an A/P mechanic , I worked at Live T.V. in OIA installing FM radios on the seats of the Air Tran fleet of 717 .We did all the airplanes in one year . Good memories of all who worked on the project.
Flew a Delta 717-200 from MSP to CLT a couple years ago. Brought back some great nostalgic memories of flying in various DC-9's, MD-80 & MD-90's between the mid-80's through 2000.
I was a controller at Long Beach airport back in the 90’s and watched almost all of these roll out of the factory. I remember the delivery was 4 aircraft for TWA. They departed and they did a formation flyby over runway 25R which was right in front of the factory. I also had the opportunity to ride many times on Hawaiian’s 717’s when I lived on Kauai. Great airplane and it is sad to see them go.
I've flown on the 717 close to a dozen times, and the aircraft has the smoothest ride of any jet. It's the ideal size for shorter routes, with enough legroom and aisle space, not to mention better than average overhead storage bins. This is an aircraft that would be a shame to see disappear.
Bette rthan average overhead bins? What are you talking about? Only the right side has space for carry one baga. The left side is too small due to being overhead 2 seats.
I have flown in the 727,737,757,767,747,A319,20,A300, L1011,Dc10,and a 777. And the 717 is still the flight experience I remember and loved the most. It was such a smooth bird. Sounds amazing. Flies amazing, just amazing over all
Back in February 2023, I got to fly on a Delta 717 from HPN-ATL and back. I had wanted to fly on it for four years and I sat in 27A and 27F. Best flight of my life. The planes were both only 40% loaded.
I was a flight attendant for delta and would frequently work the 717. It was one of my favorite planes on the fleet considering I have the most pictures of me working on that aircraft! Thankfully, I had some seniority when I flew them so I always chose the forward jumpseat because I hated sitting at the tailcone lol. Even though earplugs were my best friend on those flights and working them typically meant flying more than 2 legs that day, I still looked forward to stepping on the beauty every time. I’m gonna miss it dearly!
I always look forward to flying on 717 Delta servicing Tulsa to Atlanta. Probably one of the smoothest rides. Reminds me of the Super 80 series from McDonald Douglas.
@@PilotWyattOfficial that's how I've always felt about the plane that was probably still smarter than its contemporaries when it was put out to pasture: the L-1011 Tri-Star... and IT had a bonded fuse that eliminated half-a-million rivets, practically unlimited cycles!
I just returned from Maui last week. We flew to Oahu on a Airbus a321 and then to Maui on a 717. It was the perfect island hopper for the 20 minute flight. Hawaiian managed to pack it out even though it flies to Maui every hour.
I commuted between KC and NY for a year on Midwest Air. They used primarily 717s on the route. It was a very comfortable aircraft for that route and I like flying on them with the 2 and 2 config. I liked the warm cookies too!
O man - that chocolate chip cookie baking smell was the best ! Only airline to even bother with Passenger fun ! Cold grapes also …. I miss Midwest Express ! Orlando to Milwaukee , good times - One time a pilot came thru the cabin and asked if we were having fun …. Cool guys . B 717 - Nice .
I fly on the Delta 717 quite often from Tulsa to Atlanta and back First class is nothing spectacular but it's become an airplane that I very much adore
I was flying on AirTran from HOU to ATL and there was a Delta flight taking off the next gate over to ATL shortly before us on a regional jet. The gate crew were making their usual announcement about how it was a smaller aircraft and your might need to gate check your carry on. After they finished, the AirTran crew made their announcement and made sure to mention that they were flying a larger aircraft so you wouldn't need to worry about gate checking.
I remember flying on an AirTran 717 back in the day. I was sitting in the back near the engines, and I clearly remember on engine start it sounded vaguely like an L-1011, with the distinctive "Mooing" sound on start-up. Loved the flight experience!
I got to fly on 2 different 717's on my round trip from Bozeman, MT to Newark, NJ. Flew it on the second leg from Minneapolis, MN to Newark. Then the return from Newark, NJ back to Minneapolis, MN. Was so neat to fly an aircraft that got it's start as the good old DC-9 from Douglas.
Been on a good amount of MD80s and the 717 with Delta. I actually love the MD/717 design from a passenger point of view. The aircraft are quiet, I love the 2-3 config, and the idea that I am flying on a McDonnell Douglas classic completes the lot for me. I was sad when Delta retired the MD88 a few years back, but its nice to know I live near 2 airports close by that still Delta still uses the Boeing 717 on (EWR and HPN). I still fly on the 717 to and from Atlanta to NY area when I get the chance...even if it means choosing the undesirable time.
I’d love to see a video like this on the 767! It seems like a fairly weird plane, airlines are retiring them and other airlines are taking delivery of brand new ones
@@heidirabenau511 yeah thats what i meant, I probably should have clarified. Still kinda crazy tho cause the 747 only lasted 5 years as a freighter, just different than what usually happens.
Flew on the 717 a couple months ago just so I can say that I did when they truly become ancient. I have always that it's been a sleek aircraft like its mad dog brothers and sisters. Always thought it was cool how they integrated the APU intake into the tail. It's a great aircraft and I wish they would stay around just a little bit longer.
The 717 was the last vestige of McDonnell-Douglas before Boeing swallowed it. I never understood why Boeing continued its production despite the small customer base.
If you think boeing swallowed McDonald-Douglas then maybe do some research. It may have been boeing money and the boeing name but the reality was very different. John McDonald was the largest single shareholder and a McDonald guy became CEO. That said I agree with you, I think it was just fulfilling contractual obligations and to have something in that market space.
@@jamesbambury I get that it's an inside joke, which I didn't realize until now. I suspect most people on a public site don't know that, so when we occasionally see people talking about McDonald-Douglas we naturally assume they don't know better.
My dad was an A&P Mechanic, and later Supervisor of aircraft overhaul at Hawaiian Airlines in the 70s, 80s and 90s. But for two years in the early 70s he was the on-site rep for Hawaiian at McDonald-Douglas in Long Beach when they were buying eight (I think) new DC-9 aircraft, the 50 series stretch if memory serves. I don't think it was rebranded MD90 until the 80s. We'd occasionally visit my dad at the HAL maintenance hangar and get to see the jets up close and personal. They seemed really huge to me as a little kid. Little did I know at the time, my future father-in-law was running the avionics shop (also best friends with my dad). I got to sit in the pilots seat a few times and ride a cherry picker up to see the T-tail up close. A few years ago I got a Hawaiian liveried 717 model for my dads 90th...and got one for myself as well. Still a really nice looking airplane.
I used to fly between West Palm Beach and Atlanta on AirTran's 717s. It really was extremely affordable, and the advantage was flying in a new plane. AirTran did not have the drama of Southwest, nor the major production of loading a large wide body aircraft. The 717 was perfect for this route.
When I finished working the B737NG in Wichita KS, including the assembly design of the tail skid that first fitted into a B737 series, Rohr Industries in San Diego re-hired all former employees to come back to work on the nacelle package for the just-won MD-95, MD’s last pitch program. I was the engineer tasked to layout the design of the engine build-up (EBU) for that BR715 engine from BMW-RR. That engine was a very clean design, fun to work with. Adding to Rohr being the provider for the entire EBU and nacelle package, the industry got a near-perfect new generation aircraft. To most of us that worked on it, it was a total surprise that not long after it became B717, production stopped. I’m now retired early due to COVID, still love watching these beautiful small passengers jets take off and landings. Only wanting to see the remainder fleet to be in service much longer. It still is, a beautiful aircraft! ✈️
Although the 717 is a very niche aircraft it is a true workhorse with MD heritage. I used to work at Boeing Capital Corporation and worked on many of the leases for these aircraft to Hawaiian and Delta. I've had the privilege to fly on a few too. They have a special place in aviation history and my heart! :)
Alas, BCC is no more, but we have enjoyed working with Paul Righi, Marty Eckart, Masiker and Orth, as Tim Myers used to be our boss in Long Beach. I did enjoy my type rating work at Boeing Alteon [FSB] in Long Beach, but DL changed the routing so much now I only got to ride as a PAX once. Boeing instructor pilots are the best.
0:53 Ooof! I thought they were going to plant that plane in the ground on the other runway. Made me nearly jump out of my chair. Also, I worked on this aircraft as a technician for 13 years. Still know it well inside and out.
I had the opportunity to fly 2 Delta 717's this past Saturday. PVD-DTW-RIC. Was blessed with an upgrade to First. Seat 1C and 1B. Great little airplane.
when i first started working on the ramp in australia the 717 was the first aircraft i ever worked with when it was with impulse airlines and everytime i marshalled one onto the bay i would walk up and pat it on its nose, and even with it being a bulk load aircraft compared to all the other aircraft types i have have worked with since, it still remains probably my most favoured aircraft to work around and fly on
Thank you for sharing a very nice small aircraft. Yes, I have seen Hawaiian Airlines with their 717s there in Kona, Hawaii a few years ago. They are cute to see. I have always thought those aircraft were the brother & sister to the old DC-9 aircraft. I feel on the old DC-9s years ago. And those DC-9s were nice. The next time I go Hawaii, I will do a couple of island hopping to experience the 717s before they leave the passenger side of flying. We may see these aircraft on the cargo side at some point if not already there are some?
I've flown on 717s a few times during 2005/6 in S E Asia. They were used by Bangkok Airways at the time, before being replaced by Airbus A319/320s. I also flew on a 717 in the livery of Siem Reap Airways, a Cambodian airline but wholly owned by the aforementioned Bangkok Airways. I liked the 3-2 seat configuration, it actually felt no less roomy than flying on a 737 or Airbus A320. The main drawback was the fact that the back three rows had no windows as this was right next to the engines. You certainly felt the engine thrust from the back on take off, they went up like a pocket rocket!
Regarding his comment on the replacement for the 717s, that was directed at Hawaiian Airlines, who as of yet have not ordered an aircraft to act as successor to their own 717s. While Delta and Qantas have ordered the A220, Hawaiian is a very different carrier, a leisure operator as opposed to Legacy/Flag/Full Service carrier, so it will be interesting to see what option they will go with.
The AirTran 717 service from IND to RSW was a godsend in my apprenticeship days. It was so nice to have a cheap, nonstop ride when I was home sick. It'll always have a special place in my heart. As will the MD-80/90 series.
I flew on the 717 twice. Going to FL from ATL and back when AirTran Airways was still in business. The DC-9 family is my all time favorite among commercial aircraft.
The Embraer E-195 is better. Much more reliable and lower operating costs. That is why airlines are keeping the 717 for so long so far. The A220 can't beat its operating costs and only worthy being replaced by an Embraer.
I flew on one of these a few years ago. I had an interview out in Dayton, OH, and I was flown out there. Unfortunately, the return flight was canceled, so I got a pair of Delta flights back home. I flew DAY-ATL, then ATL-ABE; the ATL-ABE leg was on a 717. It was a nice plane. It had good room, decent aisle width, nice ride, and it had a powerful takeoff.
I live in Honolulu, so I fly Hawaiian Airlines a lot. The B717 is a lineal descendant of the old DC-9 and MD-80 series aircraft, which Hawaiian had operated since the 1960s. The B717 was a natural choice for the airline after Boeing's merger with McDonnell Douglas. Efficient, reliable and comfortable, it's been a real workhorse for that company's short-haul interisland service where the longest route is Honolulu-Hilo at 216 miles and 35-45 minutes flight time. It'll be interesting to see the aircraft type Hawaiian chooses as the B717's replacement. They've been occasionally using the A321 on select interisland segments recently, but I don't think that's a long-term consideration.
I flew on 717s several times from 2009-2011 on Air Tran... really enjoyed them! Also, the NFL liveries looked really sharp on the 717s, especially the Ravens and the Falcons
I used to fly these as a kid from STL to MCO to Disney with parents on AirTran. Such a simpler time with a budget airline that took care of their customers.
I remember speaking to the captain of an Air Tran 717 on one of their last flights into KFLL from KBWI before Southwest after having bought the Airline decided to sell the B717 fleet to Delta. He was sad as Southwest informed the B717 pilots they would transition to B737 operations after the necessary training and type rating. He said he will greatly miss flying the B717 as it was a pilot's dream to fly and had the quietest cockpit of any airliner.
My local airport (GNV) only serves a handful of destinations, but Delta regularly flies them between here and ATL. Originally the route was only served by CRJs, but as airport traffic has increased, they started using the large (and more spacious) 717 more frequently.
You should take a look at the MD-11 aswell since it will probably be gone in a few years. Fedex and UPS has announced retiring these planes with Fedex planning to have them gone by 2028. WGA still operates them but there seems to be some issues at the company so who knows how long they will stick around...
Living five miles away from PHNL and 1/4th a mile from final, I get a great view of what's flying onto runway 8L. I will miss seeing Hawaiian Air 717's when they change over as I do the passenger 747's from other airlines in the past. KAL still services HNL with a 747-8 and it's still a treat to see. for the algorithm.
I was told by a Delta mechanic that Delta is still leaning heavily on the 717s because their new 220s have turned out to be major lemons. They are changing engines frequently because they keep blowing out oil seals.
I can confirm what your friend says. The 220's are going through engines faster than they can be overhauled. An overly complicated aircraft, with an absurdly confused maintenance manual. Might have been an ok business jet, but not well suited for commercial use.
@@robertkeaney7047 Main issue is that it can't perform the daily routes that the MD fleet could. Instead of the 6-7-8+ legs a day it is at best a 2-3 leg plane. I had high hopes for them when we got them but they're not the best, hence the lack of them based in ATL.
@@swagger897 Yes, I know, they send them to us in BOS. BTW, we own NO more engines currently, so anything that goes OOS, is going to stay that way for a while.
Only flew on this aircraft once with airtran in first class back in the day and it was probably the smoothest and quietest flights I've ever been on to date. Mostly due to being up front instead of the back lol
On a haeaiian flight, it was 5 minutes late to leave. That put us out of the slot in Honolulu so we sat and waited for an hour and 10 minutes before we took off. Also, the jet is decent but there's definitely better ones. The engines being in the back makes for a weird looking plane by modern day standards but just makes it unique. Also, that makes it quite loud particularly in the back
Just a question? I’m usually aware of plane models, however, it seems this B 717 has been in the news recently, and I may have assumed these 5:13 rear engined craft were 727s. I now see that the MD 80-90 because the 717. And that the 727 actually had 3 engines. Thanks for causing me to look into this
For the foreseeable future, Delta has no plans to retire their 717s. They are even acquiring some QANTAS Link 717s to be used for spares machines. The 717s that Delta does still have in storage, are being brought back into the fleet a few at a time. I believe that plan is to have a total of about 80+ in active service when the rest are brought back. Just like may airliners of the past, there is nothing or current that can replace the 717, except another 717. No Airbuses or newer Boeings.
Never had the pleasure of flying on an actual 717 but I sure did get flown around a lot on DC9s. As an airline mechanic they would always sit me in the "intake" seat.
NO! My favourite plane! Only 1 airline near me operates it, and that’s QantasLink. I see them not very often, only when I go to the airport or the end of the runway I can see it. I will miss this plane 😭😭😭
I flew several times on the 717 with AirTran when the planes were brand new, really nice paint and cabins. I always thought it was based on the MD80 and even the DC-9 that was everywhere in the 70s. Similar airframe, updated with modern engines and electronics maybe?
I'm watching this Aviation Video Topic on Delta Airlines Farewell to there Former MAD Dog Family now know As The B717's is being phase out as we speak I'll miss for sure R.I.P Awesome Video Globetrotting at DJ'S Aviation nuff respect to all your Videos on Aviation and Travel keep going and Dream Big on Aviation man 100%
I remember when McDonnell Douglas announced this program as the MD-95. ValuJet was going to be a major customer until the AirTran buyout which gave them the rights for the order...
The Boeing 717 is a re-badged MD-95. Which is a variant of the MD-80 series aircraft. They all have their origins in the DC-9, which entered service in 1965.
Absolutely worth mentioning. We're taking DC9s basically. Great airplane.
I loved the 717. Flew a number of them with AirTran from GPT to ATL when these were brand new. On one flight the captain announced that it was the fifth day in service for the aircraft we were flying. Delta is currently flying the 717 GPT-ATL.
I take it from Tulsa to Atlanta. Better than a lot of the regionals.
The Delta 717s are the old Air Tran 717 on lease from Southwest.
I flew aa AirTran 717 on IND-ATL for business once. Loved the heck out of that flight. Remember it having satellite radio, which was new at the time, and even though I had my iRiver triangle MP3 player (with about 20-30 songs of highly reduced quality to fit them in) I listened to the radio. It was a treat.
As an A/P mechanic , I worked at Live T.V. in OIA installing FM radios on the seats of the Air Tran fleet of 717 .We did all the airplanes in one year . Good memories of all who worked on the project.
AirTran?
Initially, Delta was going to retire them in 2025, but the latest news is that Delta will not be retiring the 717 until around 2030.
PLEASE confirm this
@@austinkub2337 confirmed
@@7674-p6y I meant a legit source
same with hawaiian but i think now they’re doing same thing as delta
Where’d you see that??
Flew a Delta 717-200 from MSP to CLT a couple years ago. Brought back some great nostalgic memories of flying in various DC-9's, MD-80 & MD-90's between the mid-80's through 2000.
Many people don't realize that it's really not a Boeing. It's a little Mad Dog with an Airbus FMS.
@@DrSeuss-nv9hw it came down safely for me,that’s what I cared about.
I was a controller at Long Beach airport back in the 90’s and watched almost all of these roll out of the factory. I remember the delivery was 4 aircraft for TWA. They departed and they did a formation flyby over runway 25R which was right in front of the factory. I also had the opportunity to ride many times on Hawaiian’s 717’s when I lived on Kauai. Great airplane and it is sad to see them go.
I've flown on the 717 close to a dozen times, and the aircraft has the smoothest ride of any jet. It's the ideal size for shorter routes, with enough legroom and aisle space, not to mention better than average overhead storage bins. This is an aircraft that would be a shame to see disappear.
The two times I went to Vagas,I flew on Air Tran 717 from Atlanta, I have always regretted not ever flying on a 747!
Bette rthan average overhead bins? What are you talking about? Only the right side has space for carry one baga. The left side is too small due to being overhead 2 seats.
I remember the most exciting flight I have been on, an ARMY LOC , and got shot at , I promised myself not to do it twice!
I have flown in the 727,737,757,767,747,A319,20,A300, L1011,Dc10,and a 777. And the 717 is still the flight experience I remember and loved the most. It was such a smooth bird. Sounds amazing. Flies amazing, just amazing over all
like a magic carpet ride eh?
I flew the BAC 111, simular. But I really loved the L1011, and 747.
Been on a DC-9 too.
You sorta hinted that you like to fly!
I was on a plane with two aisles , three seats in the middle and two on each side, please tell me what plane that was,Thank you.
@@haroldpayne2527 767
I had my 1st B717 flight on AirTran out of MDW in Dec. 2000. That plane takes off like the space shuttle!
Back in February 2023, I got to fly on a Delta 717 from HPN-ATL and back. I had wanted to fly on it for four years and I sat in 27A and 27F. Best flight of my life. The planes were both only 40% loaded.
I was a flight attendant for delta and would frequently work the 717. It was one of my favorite planes on the fleet considering I have the most pictures of me working on that aircraft! Thankfully, I had some seniority when I flew them so I always chose the forward jumpseat because I hated sitting at the tailcone lol. Even though earplugs were my best friend on those flights and working them typically meant flying more than 2 legs that day, I still looked forward to stepping on the beauty every time. I’m gonna miss it dearly!
The MD88 was even worse in the aft section. Did you retire or just move on?
I always look forward to flying on 717 Delta servicing Tulsa to Atlanta. Probably one of the smoothest rides. Reminds me of the Super 80 series from McDonald Douglas.
I flew deltas 717 back in 22, it is an awesome little aircraft and the engine sound is ineradicable!
Well, it'll be eradicated in the next few years on the basis of what's said here.
@@nautilusshell4969 it's sad to see all of the great classics go
@@PilotWyattOfficial that's how I've always felt about the plane that was probably still smarter than its contemporaries when it was put out to pasture: the L-1011 Tri-Star... and IT had a bonded fuse that eliminated half-a-million rivets, practically unlimited cycles!
I absolutely love the B717, I flew it from ATL to FLL and back on AirTran after Southwest bought it, the engine sound is very unique.
I flew on a Delta Airlines 717 from Detroit to Myrtle Beach! Awesome aircraft!
I just returned from Maui last week. We flew to Oahu on a Airbus a321 and then to Maui on a 717. It was the perfect island hopper for the 20 minute flight. Hawaiian managed to pack it out even though it flies to Maui every hour.
Amazing the altitude flown over such a short route
I have flown the 717 many times for inter-island flights in Hawaii. They are really nice planes and are really quiet.
it depends where you sit. i sat in the last row next to the engine and it was super loud. good thing the flight was short.
Me sitting at the back of the plane
I commuted between KC and NY for a year on Midwest Air. They used primarily 717s on the route. It was a very comfortable aircraft for that route and I like flying on them with the 2 and 2 config. I liked the warm cookies too!
O man - that chocolate chip cookie baking smell was the best ! Only airline to even bother with
Passenger fun ! Cold grapes also …. I miss Midwest Express ! Orlando to Milwaukee , good times -
One time a pilot came thru the cabin and asked if we were having fun …. Cool guys . B 717 - Nice .
I fly on the Delta 717 quite often from Tulsa to Atlanta and back First class is nothing spectacular but it's become an airplane that I very much adore
I was flying on AirTran from HOU to ATL and there was a Delta flight taking off the next gate over to ATL shortly before us on a regional jet. The gate crew were making their usual announcement about how it was a smaller aircraft and your might need to gate check your carry on. After they finished, the AirTran crew made their announcement and made sure to mention that they were flying a larger aircraft so you wouldn't need to worry about gate checking.
I remember flying on an AirTran 717 back in the day. I was sitting in the back near the engines, and I clearly remember on engine start it sounded vaguely like an L-1011, with the distinctive "Mooing" sound on start-up. Loved the flight experience!
I love the 717 its an Iconic aircraft, I have been recently flying between Hartford and Atlanta a lot and most of those times it has been on the 717
So it was really the 5th generation of the DC-9 family and production for 43 years, good lifespan for a narrow body airliner.
The DC-9-95!
I got to fly on 2 different 717's on my round trip from Bozeman, MT to Newark, NJ. Flew it on the second leg from Minneapolis, MN to Newark. Then the return from Newark, NJ back to Minneapolis, MN. Was so neat to fly an aircraft that got it's start as the good old DC-9 from Douglas.
The 717 is one of my favorite aircraft. I flew it on Delta many times. It’s perfect for short routes and it surely beats those hideous CRJ-50s.
Been on a good amount of MD80s and the 717 with Delta. I actually love the MD/717 design from a passenger point of view. The aircraft are quiet, I love the 2-3 config, and the idea that I am flying on a McDonnell Douglas classic completes the lot for me. I was sad when Delta retired the MD88 a few years back, but its nice to know I live near 2 airports close by that still Delta still uses the Boeing 717 on (EWR and HPN). I still fly on the 717 to and from Atlanta to NY area when I get the chance...even if it means choosing the undesirable time.
will miss seeing this silhouette flying over detroit, have seen them in our skies since i was a kid
I’d love to see a video like this on the 767! It seems like a fairly weird plane, airlines are retiring them and other airlines are taking delivery of brand new ones
Only cargo airlines are still receiving brand new 767s.
@@heidirabenau511 yeah thats what i meant, I probably should have clarified. Still kinda crazy tho cause the 747 only lasted 5 years as a freighter, just different than what usually happens.
@@Adam-pf4mf Not sure what you mean that the 747 only lasted 5 years as a freighter….. Could you explain?
@@dmcr9525 after the last -8i was delivered, the program was available for 5 years before the discontinuation was announced
@@Adam-pf4mf Ok got it! Thanks so much for the for the explanation. I was thinking you were talking about the -8 but just wanted to be sure.
I flew the 717 several times when Air Tran flew out of Boston. No complaints, the seating was couple friendly.
I never got the chance to fly on a 717, but I did get to fly on a Delta MD-88 back in 2018! Landing in Atlanta, that thing was gold man!
Delta still has the 717, you still have a good chance to fly it
@@jcspotter7322 Thanks for letting me know! You know which routes they operate from?
@@roundtripflyer shorter routes from Detroit and Atlanta
@@roundtripflyer I had just flown the 717 through MKE to DTW and connecting on another one from DTW to BNA, seems they still have a few around for now
I had flown on PG Bangkok Airways BKK-PNH-BKK back in early 2000. Loved it!
Flew on the 717 a couple months ago just so I can say that I did when they truly become ancient. I have always that it's been a sleek aircraft like its mad dog brothers and sisters. Always thought it was cool how they integrated the APU intake into the tail. It's a great aircraft and I wish they would stay around just a little bit longer.
You failed to mention that this plane is really an McDonnell Douglas DC-9 (with larger engines) and NOT a Boeing creation
Great video on the 717 will be sad to see it go! Can you do a status video on how many 757s 767s are left out there?
Just google that. It's not hard to find.
@@johniii8147 Hi John 👋🏼. If we all googled stuff then there wouldn’t be a need for this channel 😄.
@@awatercolourist Well that was point actually. Nothing new here
The 717 was the last vestige of McDonnell-Douglas before Boeing swallowed it. I never understood why Boeing continued its production despite the small customer base.
If you think boeing swallowed McDonald-Douglas then maybe do some research. It may have been boeing money and the boeing name but the reality was very different. John McDonald was the largest single shareholder and a McDonald guy became CEO. That said I agree with you, I think it was just fulfilling contractual obligations and to have something in that market space.
It had to deliver the aircraft that were already under contract. Boeing did try to sell more but didn't find a market for it.
@@jamesbambury The name is McDonnell.
@@dalydegagne1839 very true but being a former boeing guy it’s a passive aggressive inside joke. We hate what they did to our company.
@@jamesbambury I get that it's an inside joke, which I didn't realize until now. I suspect most people on a public site don't know that, so when we occasionally see people talking about McDonald-Douglas we naturally assume they don't know better.
I just started training on the 717 this week. I can’t wait to go fly it
My dad was an A&P Mechanic, and later Supervisor of aircraft overhaul at Hawaiian Airlines in the 70s, 80s and 90s. But for two years in the early 70s he was the on-site rep for Hawaiian at McDonald-Douglas in Long Beach when they were buying eight (I think) new DC-9 aircraft, the 50 series stretch if memory serves. I don't think it was rebranded MD90 until the 80s. We'd occasionally visit my dad at the HAL maintenance hangar and get to see the jets up close and personal. They seemed really huge to me as a little kid. Little did I know at the time, my future father-in-law was running the avionics shop (also best friends with my dad). I got to sit in the pilots seat a few times and ride a cherry picker up to see the T-tail up close. A few years ago I got a Hawaiian liveried 717 model for my dads 90th...and got one for myself as well. Still a really nice looking airplane.
My dad actually works for Hawaiian airlines and has flown these for about 15 years now.
I used to fly between West Palm Beach and Atlanta on AirTran's 717s. It really was extremely affordable, and the advantage was flying in a new plane. AirTran did not have the drama of Southwest, nor the major production of loading a large wide body aircraft. The 717 was perfect for this route.
When I finished working the B737NG in Wichita KS, including the assembly design of the tail skid that first fitted into a B737 series, Rohr Industries in San Diego re-hired all former employees to come back to work on the nacelle package for the just-won MD-95, MD’s last pitch program. I was the engineer tasked to layout the design of the engine build-up (EBU) for that BR715 engine from BMW-RR. That engine was a very clean design, fun to work with. Adding to Rohr being the provider for the entire EBU and nacelle package, the industry got a near-perfect new generation aircraft. To most of us that worked on it, it was a total surprise that not long after it became B717, production stopped. I’m now retired early due to COVID, still love watching these beautiful small passengers jets take off and landings. Only wanting to see the remainder fleet to be in service much longer. It still is, a beautiful aircraft! ✈️
I loved the B717. One of the few aeroplanes that made flying fun.
Although the 717 is a very niche aircraft it is a true workhorse with MD heritage. I used to work at Boeing Capital Corporation and worked on many of the leases for these aircraft to Hawaiian and Delta. I've had the privilege to fly on a few too. They have a special place in aviation history and my heart! :)
Alas, BCC is no more, but we have enjoyed working with Paul Righi, Marty Eckart, Masiker and Orth, as Tim Myers used to be our boss in Long Beach. I did enjoy my type rating work at Boeing Alteon [FSB] in Long Beach, but DL changed the routing so much now I only got to ride as a PAX once. Boeing instructor pilots are the best.
0:53 Ooof! I thought they were going to plant that plane in the ground on the other runway. Made me nearly jump out of my chair. Also, I worked on this aircraft as a technician for 13 years. Still know it well inside and out.
I had the opportunity to fly 2 Delta 717's this past Saturday. PVD-DTW-RIC. Was blessed with an upgrade to First. Seat 1C and 1B. Great little airplane.
when i first started working on the ramp in australia the 717 was the first aircraft i ever worked with when it was with impulse airlines and everytime i marshalled one onto the bay i would walk up and pat it on its nose, and even with it being a bulk load aircraft compared to all the other aircraft types i have have worked with since, it still remains probably my most favoured aircraft to work around and fly on
Thank you for sharing a very nice small aircraft. Yes, I have seen Hawaiian Airlines with their 717s there in Kona, Hawaii a few years ago. They are cute to see. I have always thought those aircraft were the brother & sister to the old DC-9 aircraft. I feel on the old DC-9s years ago. And those DC-9s were nice. The next time I go Hawaii, I will do a couple of island hopping to experience the 717s before they leave the passenger side of flying. We may see these aircraft on the cargo side at some point if not already there are some?
I flew a Boeing 717 from Minneapolis to Chicago. It was on AirTran a number of years ago, and it was great.
Saw an old Delta one in SLC just last week. Flew on them a few times...
Island hopping on Hawaiian's 717's are awesome! Those pilots really know how to fly them!
I've flown on 717s a few times during 2005/6 in S E Asia. They were used by Bangkok Airways at the time, before being replaced by Airbus A319/320s. I also flew on a 717 in the livery of Siem Reap Airways, a Cambodian airline but wholly owned by the aforementioned Bangkok Airways. I liked the 3-2 seat configuration, it actually felt no less roomy than flying on a 737 or Airbus A320. The main drawback was the fact that the back three rows had no windows as this was right next to the engines. You certainly felt the engine thrust from the back on take off, they went up like a pocket rocket!
Pretty sure Delta stated the 717s will be replaced by the A220s like qantas
Regarding his comment on the replacement for the 717s, that was directed at Hawaiian Airlines, who as of yet have not ordered an aircraft to act as successor to their own 717s. While Delta and Qantas have ordered the A220, Hawaiian is a very different carrier, a leisure operator as opposed to Legacy/Flag/Full Service carrier, so it will be interesting to see what option they will go with.
The AirTran 717 service from IND to RSW was a godsend in my apprenticeship days. It was so nice to have a cheap, nonstop ride when I was home sick. It'll always have a special place in my heart. As will the MD-80/90 series.
IND to FWA? Did they leave the gear down? 🛫🛬 😉
@Mark I meant to say IND to RSW lol. I live near FWA now.
I flew on the 717 twice. Going to FL from ATL and back when AirTran Airways was still in business. The DC-9 family is my all time favorite among commercial aircraft.
my first flight was on an AirTran 717 from MCO to ATL! Good times
The A220 is really a perfect successor to the 717
The Embraer E-195 is better. Much more reliable and lower operating costs. That is why airlines are keeping the 717 for so long so far. The A220 can't beat its operating costs and only worthy being replaced by an Embraer.
I flew on one of these a few years ago. I had an interview out in Dayton, OH, and I was flown out there. Unfortunately, the return flight was canceled, so I got a pair of Delta flights back home. I flew DAY-ATL, then ATL-ABE; the ATL-ABE leg was on a 717. It was a nice plane. It had good room, decent aisle width, nice ride, and it had a powerful takeoff.
I live in Honolulu, so I fly Hawaiian Airlines a lot. The B717 is a lineal descendant of the old DC-9 and MD-80 series aircraft, which Hawaiian had operated since the 1960s. The B717 was a natural choice for the airline after Boeing's merger with McDonnell Douglas. Efficient, reliable and comfortable, it's been a real workhorse for that company's short-haul interisland service where the longest route is Honolulu-Hilo at 216 miles and 35-45 minutes flight time. It'll be interesting to see the aircraft type Hawaiian chooses as the B717's replacement. They've been occasionally using the A321 on select interisland segments recently, but I don't think that's a long-term consideration.
Loud airplane. Glad to see it go.
I flew on 717s several times from 2009-2011 on Air Tran... really enjoyed them! Also, the NFL liveries looked really sharp on the 717s, especially the Ravens and the Falcons
One of the best flights i ever had on one of these.
The 717 is a replica with the MD Douglas DC-9, and a Brother of the 727, Very Iconic Planes.
I flew a 717 back in June of 2022 on my way home. I flew a Delta 717 from Kansas City to Atlanta.
I used to fly these as a kid from STL to MCO to Disney with parents on AirTran. Such a simpler time with a budget airline that took care of their customers.
I remember speaking to the captain of an Air Tran 717 on one of their last flights into KFLL from KBWI before Southwest after having bought the Airline decided to sell the B717 fleet to Delta. He was sad as Southwest informed the B717 pilots they would transition to B737 operations after the necessary training and type rating. He said he will greatly miss flying the B717 as it was a pilot's dream to fly and had the quietest cockpit of any airliner.
It's the last 1 standing of the DC/MD series. In 83 I toured the USA from Coast to Coast on Republic airlines & their fleet of DC9's!
I'd like to see a video of the other 717 variants that were not produced.
Me too
I second that. Throw in the MD80 as well :)
I have flown the 717 frequently while island hopping on Hawaiian Airlines. Nice little jet. Quiet and quick.
I used to work for Midwest and flew on the 717 a few times…it was a great aircraft
Volotea Airlines flew untill 2021. Great airplane.
My local airport (GNV) only serves a handful of destinations, but Delta regularly flies them between here and ATL. Originally the route was only served by CRJs, but as airport traffic has increased, they started using the large (and more spacious) 717 more frequently.
You should take a look at the MD-11 aswell since it will probably be gone in a few years. Fedex and UPS has announced retiring these planes with Fedex planning to have them gone by 2028. WGA still operates them but there seems to be some issues at the company so who knows how long they will stick around...
I'm a ramper for delta and I love the madpup
I love flying on this plane. For some reason, I feel really safe in it. I think it is a refresh of the DC9
The 717 was a refreshed DC-9, it was a bargain aircraft, Air Tran was the launch customer. My Father and Brother worked at MD during that time.
I also like the 717 my last flight was on one pre pandemic. They're good little planes.
Flown on Hawaiian 717's many times. Very quiet and smooth.
Living five miles away from PHNL and 1/4th a mile from final, I get a great view of what's flying onto runway 8L. I will miss seeing Hawaiian Air 717's when they change over as I do the passenger 747's from other airlines in the past. KAL still services HNL with a 747-8 and it's still a treat to see.
for the algorithm.
I was told by a Delta mechanic that Delta is still leaning heavily on the 717s because their new 220s have turned out to be major lemons. They are changing engines frequently because they keep blowing out oil seals.
I can confirm what your friend says. The 220's are going through engines faster than they can be overhauled. An overly complicated aircraft, with an absurdly confused maintenance manual. Might have been an ok business jet, but not well suited for commercial use.
@@robertkeaney7047 Main issue is that it can't perform the daily routes that the MD fleet could. Instead of the 6-7-8+ legs a day it is at best a 2-3 leg plane. I had high hopes for them when we got them but they're not the best, hence the lack of them based in ATL.
@@swagger897 Yes, I know, they send them to us in BOS. BTW, we own NO more engines currently, so anything that goes OOS, is going to stay that way for a while.
Only flew on this aircraft once with airtran in first class back in the day and it was probably the smoothest and quietest flights I've ever been on to date. Mostly due to being up front instead of the back lol
My Husband flew the 717 when he 1st went to AirTran. He hated it. He was so happy after he transferred to the 737
I can hear again...50yrs of suffering...best boeing plane ever
On a haeaiian flight, it was 5 minutes late to leave. That put us out of the slot in Honolulu so we sat and waited for an hour and 10 minutes before we took off. Also, the jet is decent but there's definitely better ones. The engines being in the back makes for a weird looking plane by modern day standards but just makes it unique. Also, that makes it quite loud particularly in the back
I took my first 717 flight with Delta on May 21, 2022. The 717 is pretty awesome! I liked sitting right in front of those ROARING BR700 engines! 😁✈️
Yeah especially at takeoff those engines sound just other worldly
Just a question? I’m usually aware of plane models, however, it seems this B 717 has been in the news recently, and I may have assumed these 5:13 rear engined craft were 727s. I now see that the MD 80-90 because the 717. And that the 727 actually had 3 engines.
Thanks for causing me to look into this
It hasn't really been in the news lately. Just DJ fishing for topics to make a video.
As a person who’s been on a 717 I’m really sad :(
I always enjoyed flying in the Mad Dogs. As long as you were close to the pointy end, the engines were very quiet and all you'd hear is wind noise.
Correct. The MD90 was the quietest aircraft ever.
My best memories of the 717 are when it landed each time that I flew on it. Very emotional. 😭😢
It has always been one of my favorite planes. AirTran flew a bunch of them.
I flew the 717 so many times, mostly on AirTran. Always liked it. I don’t think I’ve flown on one in 12 years.
For the foreseeable future, Delta has no plans to retire their 717s. They are even acquiring some QANTAS Link 717s to be used for spares machines. The 717s that Delta does still have in storage, are being brought back into the fleet a few at a time. I believe that plan is to have a total of about 80+ in active service when the rest are brought back. Just like may airliners of the past, there is nothing or current that can replace the 717, except another 717. No Airbuses or newer Boeings.
I remember brand new 717s with Air Tran!
Never had the pleasure of flying on an actual 717 but I sure did get flown around a lot on DC9s. As an airline mechanic they would always sit me in the "intake" seat.
NO! My favourite plane! Only 1 airline near me operates it, and that’s QantasLink. I see them not very often, only when I go to the airport or the end of the runway I can see it. I will miss this plane 😭😭😭
i have flown the 717 in hawaii i used to take one every week going to maui i do not anymore but i have flown on a lot of 717's
I’m gonna miss flying on these a/c. They’ve served us here in Hawai’i very well.
I flew several times on the 717 with AirTran when the planes were brand new, really nice paint and cabins. I always thought it was based on the MD80 and even the DC-9 that was everywhere in the 70s. Similar airframe, updated with modern engines and electronics maybe?
I flew on one of hawaiians, pretty smooth flight. Alot quieter than I thought they'd be
Please show the varieties
Yes the b717 is a very good place they still will be there for freighters
I'm watching this Aviation Video Topic on Delta Airlines Farewell to there Former MAD Dog Family now know As The B717's is being phase out as we speak I'll miss for sure R.I.P Awesome Video Globetrotting at DJ'S Aviation nuff respect to all your Videos on Aviation and Travel keep going and Dream Big on Aviation man 100%
Delta will be flying 717's the rest of the decade. Ideal aircraft for flights from ATL to small and mid-size metropolitan areas around the South.
I remember when McDonnell Douglas announced this program as the MD-95. ValuJet was going to be a major customer until the AirTran buyout which gave them the rights for the order...