Originally Posted by FN-GM

When the MD-11 production started, McDonnell Douglas couldn't meet the performance figures they advertised before production begun. Lots of airlines canceled orders because of this.

The MD-11 does make a good cargo aircraft. It can carry very similar weight to the 747-200F. But has 1 less engine, no flight engineer and being more fuel efficient. Its only recently the 777 can compete with that.