ATOBTTR

I hate the 739's because of the way DL crams the seats in but otherwise I agree. I don't get why there are complaints about longer takeoff rolls, etc. or why they should matter that much to the average passenger, as the plane itself is by no means unsafe.

readywhenyouare

I just finished my first flight on a Delta 739. No complaints from me. It felt just like any other 737NG I've been on, just with bigger overheads and Sky Interior.

tvtd

Not arguing with the logic, but most port-o-lets are much more conducive to conducting business than the 739.

If pax didn't need restrooms airplanes wouldn't have them, and the 739 would have a couple more rows of seats.

Anything, and I mean anything, well except the CRJ200, to be rid of the 88. Last MX delay I had on an MD88 was partially due to a hole (yes a physical hole) that needed patching and was secondary to the original problem.

Not counting the takeoffs and landings, IMO the CRJ200 is worse.

Ding ding ding, we have a winner. #DLsMicDrop .

readywhenyouare

I find it hard to believe the average passenger or even frequent flyer would notice a difference in approach speed. I had an ice landing this morning and have a video to prove it. Maybe our FO had the magic touch.

jrl767

** coffee on keyboard and monitor **

glad to know I'm not the only one who can't wait for those MadDogs to depart the fleet (I'm no great fan of their Long Beach siblings either, but that's waaaaay OT for this conversation)

readywhenyouare

What's so bad about the MD-80? You have very few chances of being stuck in a middle seat and it's a very quiet ride as long as you are not next to the engine. It's certainly the toughest aircraft in the fleet.

woodford02A

Agree. As long as you're not in the last 5 rows, it's remarkably quiet and comfortable.

I do get that the interiors are not as modern looking at the new 321s and 739s, but DL has done a solid job of making them seem fresh and updated.

SeaHawg

Agree- It will be a sad day when those birds are retired. Most people don't know how old an airframe is as long as the interior is decent.

bennos

This is a great name, and I hereby propose that the 737-900 hereafter be referred to on this board as the "Flying Spreadsheet".

kochleffel

I was chagrined yesterday to discover that, on an upcoming mid-con I had booked in Y, a 739 is replacing the 753. At least I had chosen a seat in a row that exists on both, so my seat assignment hasn't changed.

tvtd

I have nothing but respect for the longevity of the MD-88. But the difference I physically feel between DLs 88s and 717s is night and day, e.i. the MX scenario I mentioned in my post.

I don't mind the 3x2 configuration at all. Were DL able to truly maintain the fleet I would love to see them hang around longer.

readywhenyouare

What exactly does that mean? Do you think Delta Tech Ops is cutting corners on the MD-88? I just stepped off of one about 15 minutes ago. Should I be thankful we made it?

tvtd

It's like a 200 year old building. If well maintained it will be structurally sound and fairly secured against the elements. The electrical will have been installed and overhauled at least once and conduit recessed in the walls. Plumbing will hopefully be converted into something modern from lead pipes, etc. But there comes a time when "being properly maintained" and "preservation" intersect, when maintenance overtakes operation. IMO DL is at that intersection with the MD-88. Why else would they be looking for the 88's replacement if they didn't see maintenance consistently outpacing operation on the horizon? I'm probably being a bit naive here, but just trying to communicate my opinion effectively while not trying to offend the Mad Dog lovers. I like the configuration, it has tons of usefulness. Also, unlike the 739, can get in the sky easily and doesn't feel like you're at cursing speed on final approach. I hope whatever DL replaces the MD with will be just as reliable.

SJC ORD LDR

IIRC, there is a requirement that the cockpit computer system be upgraded by 2020. I think I heard that from a pilot a few years ago. If that's the case, DL probably determined that the cost of performing the upgrade along with other maintenance costs just isn't worth it for frames that are approaching 30 years in age.

Buster CT1K

Do the delta 739s all have expanded overhead bins? The kind where they want your bag lying on its side?