McDonnell Douglas (originally Douglas Aircraft) DC-8-72(F)

05 Feb 2026 · © Unknown

DC-8s with CFM56 engines are referred to as 'Super 70' series. Samaritan's Purse operates this aircraft globally for urgent relief and medical supplies, often to remote or disaster-stricken regions.

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Aircraft

DC-8-72(F) DC87

Samaritan's Purse International Relief

N910SF

Registration

Airline

Samaritan's Purse

Manufacturer

McDonnell Douglas (originally Douglas Aircraft)

Insights

Aviation History

One of the few remaining active DC-8s and rare as a humanitarian freighter. The DC-8-72(F) variant with CFM56 engines is valued for its enhanced performance and reduced emissions/noise compared to the original turbojets.

Fleet Rarity

Extremely rare; less than 10 active DC-8s remain flying worldwide, almost exclusively as freighters or specialty missions.

Record Flights

DC-8s have held several records for speed and commercial jet circumnavigation in their heyday. N910SF is notable for global disaster and relief flights.

Safety & Events

This aircraft is known for high-profile relief missions and pandemic supplies delivery, including COVID-19 responses and natural disaster zones worldwide.

Future Outlook

Expected to remain in humanitarian service as long as support and regulations allow. Likely to be eventually withdrawn and potentially preserved due to historical value.

Specifications

CFM International CFM56-2C

Engine

45.2 meters

Wingspan

45.9 meters

Length

8,100 km

Range

876 km/h

Speed

Cargo: up to 45,000 kg (no passengers—freighter)

Capacity

151,320 kg

MTOW

12.7 meters

Height

23,500 lbf (104.5 kN) each (CFM56-2C engines)

Thrust

Stage 3 (ICAO Chapter 3); varies by hushkit/engine mod

Noise

No ICAO/IATA airline code, as this is a special mission operator, not a standard airline.