11/30/1986: Maiden Flight of the Fokker 100

DALLAS — Today, in 1986, the prototype Fokker 100 (PH-MKH), or F28 MK.0100 as it was initially known, took to the skies for the first time.

Announced in 1983, the aircraft was a development of the popular Fokker F28. It had the same T-tail and rear-mounted engine configuration as its predecessor. 

Upgrades

The upgrades included more powerful Rolls-Royce RB.183 Tay turbofan engines, improved and more aerodynamic wings, strengthened landing gear, and various enhancements to the flight deck and avionics. The seating capacity was increased to 109 through a fuselage stretch of 5.74 meters (18 feet 10 inches).

This expansion allowed the aircraft to fit into the 100-seat market, which was largely underserved at the time. In addition to the PH-MKH prototype, a second prototype named PH-MKC was also constructed.

Three months later, 'Kilo Charlie' took to the skies, and both prototypes underwent rigorous inflight and Fokker conducted ground testing. Certification for the aircraft was finally granted on November 20, 1987.

In Service

Launch customer Swissair (SR) received its first example on February 29, 1988. In March 1989, American Airlines (AA) placed an order for 75 airframes, marking Fokker's largest-ever order worth US$3.1 billion.

Branded as 'Luxury Jets,' the type entered service with the airline in 1991 and served for 13 years until its retirement in 2004.

Despite the Fokker 100's success, the Dutch manufacturer was struggling financially and collapsed in 1996. Production ended in 1997 after 283 aircraft had been built.

Featured Image: AA was a major operator of the F100, branding the type the 'Luxury Jet.'