DOUGLAS DC-10

1971’€“91

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The Douglas DC-10 was designed for cost-effective passenger transport, capable of utilizing shorter runways and operating economically over ranges from 300 to 3,200 miles.
  • It features a distinctive three-turbofan engine configuration (two wing-mounted, one aft fuselage) and can accommodate 270 to 380 passengers.
  • Four distinct versions were built (Series 10, 20, 30, 40), differing primarily in engine types (General Electric or Pratt & Whitney) and specialized capabilities like extended range or freighter conversion.
See a mistake? Contact us.
STANDARD DATA: (Series 30) Seats 225-380. Gross wt. 555,000. Empty wt. 263,500. Fuel capacity 35,800. Engines 49,008-lb. s.t. General Electric turbofans.
PERFORMANCE: Top mph 610. Cruise mph 578. Landing mph 167. Initial climb rate 3,000. Range 4,375. Ceiling 34,000. Takeoff distance (35′) 11,670. Landing distance (50′) 5,960.

The Douglas DC-10 is designed to carry more passengers for less cost while still retaining a capability for utilizing airports with shorter runways. It is capable of operating economically over ranges from 300 to 3,200 miles. Standard seating accommodations are for 270 mixed-class passengers or for a maximum of 380. The DC-10 is powered by three turbofan engines; two are mounted on pylons beneath the wings and the third is installed above the aft fuselage at the base of the rudder. Four versions were built. The initial Series 10 had 40,000lb. s.t. General Electric turbofans. The extendedrange Series 20 had Pratt & Whitneys rated at 47,000 or 50,000 lbs. s.t. wet. The Series 30 was the same as the Series 20 but with General Electric engines. The Series 40 was a convertible freighter with Pratt & Whitney engines.

Plane & Pilot

Plane + Pilot is general aviation’s only adventure-based magazine. From where to go, to how to get there, and everything in between, your next great adventure awaits.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get the latest Plane & Pilot Magazine stories delivered directly to your inbox

SUBSCRIBE