Royal Australian DC-9 fleet

An overview of the history of RAS' DC-9 fleet.

Starting in 1967 with the DC-9-20, it was intended to replace the Convair 440 on short haul routes with short runways. Seating 82 people in a single class layout, it effectively double the capacity offered by the CV-440, allowing more flights to different destinations. The DC-9-40 was brought on in 1969 to increase capacity and help out the 727-100 fleet.

The MD-87 was ordered in 1987, as a replacement for the DC-9 classics, and the entire 727 fleet. Replacing the entire narrowbody fleet was done over the course of 5 years, with RAS operating 47 of the type. It was also a transitional era for the airline, updating the cabins, airframes, and the livery at the same time. Thankfully, this less than inspired look only lasted until 1999 when the 717 brought along a new livery once again. 36 of these jets are still in service

In 1995, RAS was the launch customer for the MD-90, increasing the capacity of the narrowbody fleet once again. These jets were brought on board to meet demand on short haul routes between Australia's major cities.

In 1999, RAS bought 12 Boeing 717-200s to complement the MD-87 fleet with a smaller airframe to serve smaller cities.