American Polynesian Airlines | Douglas DC-10-10

With the 70s coming up new times rose for APA. The new DC-10-10 was the new flagship of the airline not long after the introduction of the DC-8. The DC-8 of course remained in the fleet but major routes were now flown by the newcomer, the DC-10. APA had a great relationship to Douglas which now fused into Mcdonnell-Douglas. APA only operated planes manufactured by Douglas and was very delighted with every aircraft type. APA's DC-10s opened a new generation of comfort. The interior carried over the tropical design from the DC-8 and expanded on that. The new livery added to the new aircraft and the metal tail was a very unique design choice. APA's planes were often quite easily noticeable just because of the metal tail design.
In 1974 the shock came and it came loud. After the first major crash of the DC-10 the problems of the aircraft were a worrying sight for APA. It didn't damage the relation to MD too much but APA lost a lot of trust towards them. Nevertheless the airline didn't gave up on the aircraft. APA did follow the instructions precise and educated their staff which is why the didn't have problems with pylons. Despite the first issues the DC-10 had APA were satisfied with the bird. The DC-10 represented the APA fleet for a long time and got retired in the early 2000s.


template by Med