How Many Operational MD-11s Are Left?
Though no longer used for passenger service, the McDonnell Douglas MD-11 continues to be a reliable cargo aircraft. Known for its three engines and distinctive tail, it has been in operation for over three decades and remains one of the most recognizable widebody aircraft.
The MD-11's Role and History
Introduced in 1990 as the successor to the DC-10, the MD-11 came in four variants: passenger, freighter, combi (passengers and cargo), and convertible freighter. Early adopters such as Delta, Swiss, KLM, and Finnair valued the aircraft for its longer range, better fuel efficiency, and advanced avionics, making it a popular choice on long-haul routes throughout the 1990s and early 2000s.
Decline in Passenger Service
As twin-engine planes like the Airbus A330 and Boeing 777 demonstrated greater economy and simpler maintenance, the MD-11's passenger service gradually ended. The last major operator, KLM, retired its final passenger MD-11 in October 2014, marking the occasion with farewell flights that attracted thousands of aviation fans at Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport.
Continued Use in Cargo Operations
Though passenger flights ceased years ago, the MD-11 remains a key workhorse in cargo transport. The aircraft recently returned to public attention following the investigation of UPS Airlines flight 2976’s crash near Louisville on November 4, 2025.
"Three engines, a distinctive tail and a career spanning more than three decades – the McDonnell Douglas MD-11 is still one of aviation’s most recognisable widebody aircraft in service."
"When the type entered service in 1990, it was marketed as the next evolution of the DC-10."
"KLM, the last major airline to operate the type with passengers, retired its final MD-11 in October 2014 with a series of farewell flights that drew thousands of enthusiasts to Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport."
Currently, there are no MD-11s operating in passenger configuration anywhere in the world.
Author's summary: Despite retiring from passenger service over a decade ago, the MD-11 remains vital in cargo aviation, known for its tri-jet design and long operational history.