Originally Posted by
FlyingCroc
Ther are different versions, all the newer ones are glass-cockpit.
MD81/82: conventional
MD83: Conventional and glass
MD87: glass
MD88/90: glass
Actually, EFIS became optional on the MD-82, AA being the first customer. They planned to retrofit their first batch with EFIS, but I don't remember if that ever happened, as it's a major undertaking, without real payback.
EFIS was optional on the 83 when it came out in '83. It's a heavyweight '82 with -219 engines vs -217.
The different designations define engines, length, etc., and not flight deck. The MD-88 was the exception, built for Delta, and later sold to others as well.
That Honeywell EFIS is now ancient, and was never inexpensive to maintain. Has anyone certified a retrofit?
GB