Market Presence. Though a number of MD82s may be in the parking lot, with some 500 in service the variant represents approximately two percent of the worlds entire jet fleet. Such a significant number cannot be ignored as replacement represents significant investment for any operator. However, the presence of 500 cannot also hide the dismal prospects for the type. The principal market both in terms of the existing fleet and potential demand for surplus units is the U.S., a market that will contribute a major portion of the net increase in availability in the short term. The MD80 has never been popular outside of North America and Europe and any expectation of significant demand outside these areas seems misplaced. Even the prospect of the type being leased in number by Russian airlines now appears remote.
You must be logged in as a subscriber to Aircraft Value News to view this page. Please log in below.
