Skip to main content

Boeing 717-200

The Boeing 717-200 is a narrow-body commercial jet aircraft known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and short-haul performance. Although no longer in production, the Boeing 717-200 continues to play an important role in regional and domestic airline operations, especially in high-frequency routes.

Boeing 717-200

What Is the Boeing 717-200?

The Boeing 717-200 is a twin-engine, short-to-medium-range jet airliner originally developed by McDonnell Douglas as the MD-95. After Boeing merged with McDonnell Douglas in 1997, the aircraft was rebranded as the Boeing 717.

The 717-200 was designed to replace older aircraft like the DC-9 and early MD-80 series, focusing on lower operating costs, reduced noise, and improved fuel efficiency.

Boeing 717-200 History

Original Name: MD-95

Rebranded: Boeing 717-200

First Flight: September 1998

Entered Service: October 1999

Production Ended: 2006

Despite a relatively short production run, the Boeing 717-200 earned a reputation for excellent dispatch reliability and durability, which is why many aircraft remain active today.

Boeing 717-200 Specifications

General Characteristics

Manufacturer: Boeing Commercial Airplanes

Aircraft Type: Narrow-body jet

Crew: 2 pilots

Dimensions

Length: 37.8 m (124 ft)

Wingspan: 28.4 m (93 ft)

Height: 8.9 m (29 ft)

Capacity

Typical Seating: 106–117 passengers

Maximum Seating: Up to 134 passengers

Performance

Cruise Speed: Mach 0.77 (approx. 870 km/h)

Range: ~2,060 km (1,110 nautical miles)

Service Ceiling: 37,000 ft

Engines

Engines: 2 × Rolls-Royce BR715 turbofan engines

Thrust: Up to 21,000 lbf per engine

Boeing 717-200 Fuel Efficiency

One of the key advantages of the Boeing 717-200 is its fuel efficiency on short-haul routes. The Rolls-Royce BR715 engines were specifically designed for:

Lower fuel burn

Reduced emissions

Quieter operations

This makes the aircraft especially suitable for frequent regional flights and airport-dense routes.

Cockpit and Avionics

The Boeing 717-200 features a modernized glass cockpit, which was advanced for its time. Key highlights include:

Digital flight displays

Advanced flight management systems

Reduced pilot workload

High dispatch reliability

Pilots often praise the aircraft for its excellent handling characteristics and smooth flight behavior.

Boeing 717-200 Interior and Passenger Comfort

Although compact, the Boeing 717-200 offers a comfortable cabin experience:

2-3 seating configuration

Wider seats compared to regional jets

Faster boarding and deplaning

Large overhead bins for its class

Its layout makes it more comfortable than many smaller regional jets on similar routes.

Current Operators of the Boeing 717-200

As of today, the Boeing 717-200 is still operated by several airlines, including:

Delta Air Lines (largest remaining operator)

Hawaiian Airlines (for inter-island flights)

QantasLink (Australia)

These airlines value the aircraft for its reliability, low maintenance costs, and suitability for short-distance operations.

Advantages of the Boeing 717-200

Pros

Exceptional reliability record

Strong short-haul performance

Quiet and efficient engines

Comfortable cabin for its size

Lower operating costs

Cons

Limited range compared to newer aircraft

Smaller capacity than A320 or 737

No longer in production

Boeing 717-200 vs Modern Aircraft

Compared to newer jets like the Airbus A220 or Embraer E195-E2, the Boeing 717-200 lacks modern fuel-saving technologies but still competes well in:

Turnaround time

Airport compatibility

Short-route economics

This explains why airlines continue to operate it even decades after its introduction.

Is the Boeing 717-200 Still Relevant?

Yes. The Boeing 717-200 remains highly relevant for airlines needing a dependable aircraft for short routes with high frequency. Its low operating costs and proven design allow it to remain competitive despite newer alternatives.

Conclusion

The Boeing 717-200 is a classic example of a well-engineered, purpose-built short-haul aircraft. While production ended years ago, its strong performance, reliability, and efficiency ensure it still plays a vital role in commercial aviation.

MORE:


AEROMACHINEX BLOG: SUBSCRIBE

POPULAR POSTS:

Aircraft Maintenance Technician, Cabin Maintenance vacancy in Delta airlines, US

Location: UNITED STATES, MASSACHUSETTS, BOSTON HOW YOU'LL HELP THEM KEEP CLIMBING (OVERVIEW & KEY RESPONSIBILITIES) The Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) is a critical TechOps role at Delta.  In this role, you will maintain the proper and safe functioning of Delta’s fleet, ensuring customers have an exceptional travel experience.  AMTs maintain aircraft, aircraft engines, and aircraft components and avionics systems according to Delta and FAA specifications; perform inspections during assembly of parts and after repair or installation of components; document maintenance procedures including component damage, origin, and condition; and practice safety conscious behaviors in all operational processes and procedures.   Summary of responsibilities (not comprehensive of all tasks):   Performs all work activities in accordance with established laws, regulations, standards, safety protocols, and procedures to ensure safety of self and others.   Inspects aircraft o...
Read more

Cabin Mechanic vacancy in Ryanair, U.K.

Location: Stansted, United Kingdom Employment Type: Full-time Cabin Mechanic Description Cabin Mechanic: Ryanair is officially the Number 1 International Airline and operates more than 2000 flights per day from 87 Bases across Europe and North Africa with 1800+ Low Fare Routes across 33 countries, connecting 205 destinations. AES (Aircraft Engineering Services) are currently recruiting for a Cabin Mechanic to be based at London Stansted Airport. Responsibilities for the role of the Cabin Mechanic will include: Carry out rectifications for aircraft interior defects. Carry out special requests for aircraft defects raised by Aircraft Appearance Department Ensure rectifications are reported daily. Assist other Engineering groups Monitor stock levels of materials required to fulfil duties. Ensure correct reporting procedures are applied and accurate daily reports are logged and sent to Aircraft Appearance Department. Requirements of the Cabin Mechanic: Aircraft / Maintenance / Cabin Trim ...
Read more

Trimmable Horizontal Stabilizer

The trimmable horizontal stabilizer (THS) is a key component of modern aircraft tail design, responsible for maintaining longitudinal stability and enabling precise control of the aircraft’s pitch. Unlike fixed stabilizers, a trimmable stabilizer can change its angle of incidence relative to the fuselage. This adjustability allows it to balance the aerodynamic forces acting on the aircraft, reduce pilot workload, and improve efficiency during different phases of flight. Purpose of a Horizontal Stabilizer The horizontal stabilizer is located at the tail of the aircraft and serves as a balancing surface to counteract the nose-down pitching moment generated by the wings and engines. Its primary functions are: Maintaining longitudinal stability. Assisting in pitch control when combined with the elevator. Providing trim adjustments to minimize continuous control input by the pilot. Trimmable vs. Non-Trimmable Stabilizers Fixed Horizontal Stabilizer with Elevator Trim Tabs: In smaller aircra...
Read more

Light Maintenance | Aircraft Mechanic vacancy in Qatar airways, Qatar

Location: Doha, Qatar About the role They are recruiting for Aircraft Mechanic with Light Maintenance to be based in Doha, Qatar. Aircraft Mechanic will be responsible to deliver Aircraft Maintenance services to support the operational requirements as directed by their supervisor and will ensure all maintenance and related activities are performed in accordance with the company/customer procedures and supplied aircraft maintenance data. Specific responsibilities of the role include: Operational Conducts tests and inspections of products, services or processes to evaluate quality or performance. Adjust, aligns and calibrates aircraft systems, using hand tools, gauges and test equipment. Examines and inspects engines or other components for cracks, breaks or leaks. Dissembles and inspects parts for wear, warping or other defects. Assembles and installs electrical, plumbing mechanical, hydraulic and structural components and accessories using hand tools and power tools. Services, cleaning...
Read more

Aircraft Technician - Line Maintenance vacancy in Emirates, UAE

Location: Dubai, UAE Job Purpose Responsible for carrying out maintenance tasks on Emirates and third party aircraft components in accordance with company procedures and regulations. The Aircraft Technician works as part of a team under the direction and guidance of the assigned Licensed Aircraft Engineer within the appropriate trade/cross trade disciplines for which they have been trained Job Outline: - Carry out routine aircraft/engine/component servicing/ maintenance and/or approved structural repairs compliant to manufacturers procedures whilst observing all safety procedures for fluid replenishment, aircraft refuelling, aircraft systems charging/servicing as required. - Complete any component replacement and other maintenance activities as directed by immediate Supervisor. This will include the ability to obtain and understand Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM), Illustrated Parts catalogue (IPC), Component Maintenance Manual (CMM) or other approved documentation required to carry...
Read more

Aircraft Technician ( Cabin Maintenance) vacancy in Delta airlines, USA

The Aircraft Technician is a critical TechOps role at Delta.  In this role, you will maintain the proper and safe functioning of Delta’s fleet, ensuring customers have an exceptional travel experience.  Aircraft Technician maintain aircraft, aircraft engines, and aircraft components and avionics systems according to Delta and FAA specifications; perform inspections during assembly of parts and after repair or installation of components; document maintenance procedures including component damage, origin, and condition; and practice safety conscious behaviors in all operational processes and procedures. Location: US , MASSACHUSETTS , BOSTON Summary of responsibilities (not comprehensive of all tasks) of Aircraft Technician: Performs all work activities in accordance with established laws, regulations, standards, safety protocols, and procedures to ensure safety of self and others. Inspects aircraft or aircraft components, including landing gear, hydraulic systems, tires, and engines f...
Read more

Aircraft Mechanic, Line maintenance vacancy in United airlines, Taiwan

The role's job includes all work generally recognized as Aircraft Mechanic work in Company designated stations. This may include power plants, Line, ETOPS, TDY (fueling), parts, ground equipment, facilities and other related work as directed by leadership. Location: Taipei, Taiwan Aircraft Mechanic are responsible for all work being performed on shift. Aircraft Mechanic may be required to test, check, and certify for service work performed. Perform all aspects of aircraft maintenance work including servicing, repair, and proper work documentation in accordance with company procedures and specifications May require to exercise Aircraft Release Authority Demonstrate initiative and leadership to other mechanic Receive and dispatch arriving/departing aircraft. Perform other duties as assigned, such as towing, refueling, etc. This position is offered on local terms and conditions.  Expatriate assignments and sponsorship for employment visas, even on a time-limited visa status, will n...
Read more

Aircraft Mechanic vacancy in Ryanair, Poland | Entry level

Location: Wrocław, Poland Description ✈Heavy maintenance of Boeing 737-800 servicing for the Part-145 organization, ✈Working under the supervision of licensed B1 / B2 / C staff, ✈Working with technical documentation (AMM, SRM, IPC, FIM, etc.), ✈Working with a workshop team (structural and composite repairs), ✈Working with the AMOS system. ✈Assisting mechanics and engineers in daily aircraft repair ✈Ensuring all jobs are done in time and in accordance with requirements ✈Ensuring all training are done in time ✈Other duties related to aircraft repair Requirements ✈Experience in working as an aircraft mechanic on Boeing 737-800 ✈Good knowledge of English (written and oral) ✈Willing to work in shift system ✈Attention to detail, manual skills Benefits ✈Employment based on an employment contract, ✈Competitive salary DISCLAIMER: AeroMachineX just provide information regarding the vacancies in various companies and is not liable for any consequences that might arise during the job applicati...
Read more

Aircraft Technician, Base Maintenance vacancy in Emirates, UAE

Aircraft Technician is responsible for carrying out maintenance tasks on Emirates and third party aircraft components in accordance with company procedures and regulations. The Aircraft Technician works as part of a team under the direction and guidance of the assigned Licensed Aircraft Engineer within the appropriate trade/cross trade disciplines for which they have been trained Location: Dubai, UAE Job Outline of Aircraft Technician Carry out routine aircraft/engine/component servicing/ maintenance and/or approved structural repairs compliant to manufacturers procedures whilst observing all safety procedures for fluid replenishment, aircraft refuelling, aircraft systems charging/servicing as required. Complete any component replacement and other maintenance activities as directed by immediate Supervisor. This will include the ability to obtain and understand Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM), Illustrated Parts catalogue (IPC), Component Maintenance Manual (CMM) or other approved d...
Read more