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The delayed delivery of McDonnell Douglas' MD-80 aircraft has caused some airlines to scale down plans to enter new passenger markets and expand operations. Labor problems, parts shortages and the rapid growth of the MD-80 program are being blamed for the delay. McDonnell Douglas expects to be back on schedule by November; Orders; Production problems; Effects on airlines; Recovery plan.

Covers the Douglas Aircraft Co.'s plans to move production of the first MD-90 aircraft forward by about eight months so it can be used for initial flight testing. The initial MD-90 is now scheduled for first flight in early 1993.

Reports that Delta Air Lines has launched Douglas Aircraft Co.'s MD90 commercial transport program by ordering 50 MD90-30s, with options for 110 Dash-30 aircraft. Douglas envisions a potential market through the year 2005 for at least 800 MD90 aircraft. Equipment; Models; Capacities; Specifications; Additional orders.

Discusses Douglas Aircraft Co.'s evaluation of the possible use of an upgraded version of the Pratt & Whitney JT8D engine, called the JT8D-223, to improve performance on the MD-80 twin-jet.

Reports that the Douglas Aircraft Co. has received the greatest customer interest to date in a version of its MD90 aircraft known as the MD90-30, powered by International Aero Engines V2500 turbofans. The new MD90 aircraft family will be offered in addition to the MD-80 family.