Part 2/7:
The disappearance of iconic aircraft isn't simply a matter of market demand—it encapsulates broader strategic decisions made amidst changing circumstances. There are two core scenarios contributing to the current wave of aircraft retirements.
Planned Decommissioning
Many airlines had already scheduled the decommissioning of older aircraft models as part of their long-term strategies. Companies like Delta have publicly announced plans to retire their MD-89s and MD-90s, accelerating these timelines due to financial pressures brought on by COVID-19. The challenge posed by high maintenance costs, the need for retrofitting, and less aerodynamic efficiency compared to newer planes makes older models unsustainable in a recovering market.