How old is the average commercial airplane?

Question

I think our aviation industry is a joke when it comes to departures and arrivals, but it is near perfect in its safety. I understand that they're serviced frequently, but on average, how old is that typical 737 with its fresh paint and new seats? Thanks!

Answer 1

B737 entered service in 1967 - so the oldest flying ones could be 41 years old.  Since the current versions of the B737 are still in production, you could be lucky and fly on one that just entered service.  Most of the early ones are likely retired now or sold to third world countries, but there are some flying in the US that are over 30 years old.  Since the older models are less fuel efficient, high fuel prices are accelerating their retirement.

I fly old B747 - the oldest one being 38 year old, and don't feel their age significantly affects my safety.  Very few commercial aircraft accidents are caused by 'geriatric problems'.

Also, for the sake of accuracy, MD-80 was introduced in 1980 - so the oldest units are 28 years old now, with most in the 15-22 year range.  MD-88 - which was a later version, were made in late 1980s and 1990s, so they are on average a bit younger.

Answer 2

There are a few 737-200's still floating around out there.  Most of those are about 30 years old.  There are also a ton of MD-88's that are in service that are 30 years old.  Northwest also still flys some DC-9's that are up there in age.  Even alot of Deltas fleet of 757 and 767 are a good 10 to 15 years old and a few even older.  DHL and FEDEX still operate some 727's that are pushing 30+.  A lot of that stuff is pretty non fuel efficient becaue they use the old straight jet or "turboJet" engines so it is getting phased out.  Expect to see the MD-88's phased out in the next few years.  They certainly have been the work horse of the airlines though.

Answer 3

Average age of commercial aircraft is between 8 and 11 years for the major carriers. However, it is not uncommon to see planes as old as 20 to 25 years. Fresh paint and fancy seats can be decieving. Its easy to make pretty an old plane.

Answer 4

737 NG production did not start until the late 90's

Answer 5

no doubt that information is out there for the determined researcher, but how bout a guess....range from 1 day to 20 years, with an average age of 8.52 years.