Great China Airlines has taken delivery of its first McDonnell Douglas (MDC) MD-90-30, which is also the first longer-range version certificated at the new optional higher maximum take-off weight (MTOW).
The aircraft has strengthened wing structure, landing gear and flap mechanisms, enabling the MTOW to be increased by 4,540kg, to 75,365kg. Fuel capacity is also expanded through the installation of one or two auxiliary fuel tanks in the belly.
The additional weight and fuel capacity enable the 150-seater's range to be boosted by 185-925km (100-500nm), to up to 5,125km, depending on the number of auxiliary fuel tanks fitted.
MDC offers the increased weight and tankage as an option, with Great China being the first to specify this version. MDC says that the last 20 of the 41 MD-90s delivered have provision made for weight and fuel increases to be incorporated as a retrofit.
This is the first extended-range MD-90 version to be developed, but it is not as big a step as the 78,245kg MTOW of the proposed -50 version, which MDC says it is still planning to offer.
Taipei, Taiwan-based Great China was one of the earliest customers for the MD-90, placing orders for three aircraft in early 1990. The airline, which is partially owned by EVA Airways, operates a turboprop fleet between its Taipei base and other cities in Taiwan. The MD-90 is its first jet-powered airliner.
Source: Flight International
