MSP phases out DC-9s

BY BOB FRISKNEY
& DICK SAUNDERS

Of interest to noise-harassed MSP neighbors, South Metro Airport Action Council (SMAAC) has learned that Delta will phase out all 24 of its aged Douglas DC9-30 and -40s in October, keeping 34 advanced DC9-50s in service. The 1960-70 vintage jets have been among the noisiest aircraft operating regularly at MSP since Northwest’s 1987 acquisition of Republic Airlines. Subsequently, Northwest grew its DC-9 fleet to more than 165 in the mid-1990s, purchasing a batch from a European carrier.

The DC-9s have been a bone of contention with neighbors for years. On NWA assurances that they would be retired by 2005, the fleet mix used by MAC to project 2001 and 2005 noise contours excluded them. Similarly, after NWA announced plans to move DC-9s to other airports in 2005, and shorten some DC-9 routes—but failed to do so—the 2007 noise contours excluded some 1,500 homes outside of either the 65 or 60 day-night level contours, SMAAC estimates.

After the peaking of fuel prices in July 2008 and the recession that followed, NWA and Delta accelerated the DC-9 phase-out schedule. However,
even today, the accuracy and relevance of the 2009 noise contours remain questionable in SMAAC’s opinion, given changes noted in some arrival and
departure paths.

Bob Friskney and Dick Saunders are board members of the South Metro Airport Action Council. Jim Spensley, also a board member, contributed
information from SMAAC archives.