McDonnell Douglas MD-83 Oasis

General Product Description

Our PlaneArts McDonnell Douglas MD-83 Oasis model exhibits unique, unrivaled quality and detailed design to come as close as possible to the accuracy of the actual plane. It comes as standard with a robust, durable base or stand which is available in a variety of different finishes designed to match your own personal requirements including solid wood, wood with polished metal supports or adjustable wood wall mount and will be ready within about 9-10 weeks from placement of order.

The McDonnell Douglas MD-83 Oasis model is made of the finest kiln dried renewable mahogany wood (commonly known as Lauan or Meranti) which has undergone many stages of carving and meticulous and careful sanding giving the beautiful finished museum quality masterpiece. Many collectors and model connoisseurs demonstrate their preference for genuine handmade and hand painted mahogany wood models rather than plastic or die cast (diecast) alternatives due to the overall look and totally different feel of the item - we trust you will find the same. We can, however, if required produce the same model in Solid Cast Resin so just click and contact us us for further information. Our craftsmen and gifted artisans ensure that our finely handcrafted model airplanes match the precise blueprint details of the original aircraft. The paint scheme, markings and parts are closely matched, reflecting the original aircraft. This stylish top-quality desktop replica model will surely enthrall anyone who receives this as a gift and for sure one of the most appropriate and desirably collectable gifts for any aviation enthusiast and avid aircraft collector whilst also displaying a perfect resemblance to the actual aircraft.

If you require we can also make the McDonnell Douglas MD-83 Oasis model in any other airline, private livery or colour scheme you require and if necessary in a different size or scale. Just click here to contact us with a description or photographs of what you require, and we will let you have a quotation for the necessary customization by return email. We can also make bespoke scale replicas of any other private / civil commercial airliner or airliners, helicopter, glider, gliders with engines, military jet, warplane jets, propeller warplanes, biplane, triplane, tail fin, spacecraft, rocket or NASA model you require in any airline, military or civilian livery or colors. We also produce model airships, blimp, dirigible, blimps, boat and ship collectibles. Wall plaque or seal for military, government or private customers. Again, by clicking here to contact us just let us know exactly what you need.

The McDonnell Douglas MD-83 Oasis: A Unique Chapter in Aviation History

The McDonnell Douglas MD-83, part of the MD-80 series, represents a significant chapter in aviation history. Known for its reliability and efficiency, the MD-83 earned its place as a workhorse for both domestic and international airlines. One of the more unique variations of this aircraft was the MD-83 Oasis, a specialized version designed to cater to a specific market segment.

A Brief Overview of the MD-80 Series:

The MD-80 series, originally developed by McDonnell Douglas in the late 1970s, was designed to be a medium-range, narrow-body jet airliner. It was an evolution of the earlier DC-9 series, featuring an elongated fuselage, improved aerodynamics, and more powerful engines. The MD-83, specifically, was introduced in 1985 as an extended-range version of the MD-82, equipped with Pratt & Whitney JT8D-219 engines that provided higher thrust and better performance under various conditions.

The Emergence of the MD-83 Oasis:

The MD-83 Oasis was a tailored version of the MD-83, configured to meet the demands of airlines that prioritized maximizing passenger capacity and comfort over longer ranges. This version gained popularity primarily in Asia, where airlines like Oasis Hong Kong Airlines adopted the aircraft for their operations.

Oasis Hong Kong Airlines, an ambitious low-cost long-haul airline founded in 2005, was among the first to leverage the MD-83 Oasis’s capabilities. The aircraft was customized to accommodate more passengers, optimizing cabin space with slimline seats and a high-density seating arrangement. This configuration enabled the airline to offer affordable tickets on long-haul routes, including flights from Hong Kong to London and Vancouver.

Design and Configuration of the MD-83 Oasis:

The MD-83 Oasis maintained the core design elements of the MD-83, such as its aerodynamic profile, T-tail, and rear-mounted engines. However, it featured several modifications to enhance passenger comfort and airline economics.

1. Seating Configuration: The Oasis version typically offered a 2-3 seat configuration, optimizing the cabin layout to increase passenger capacity while maintaining a reasonable comfort level. Slimline seats were installed to allow more legroom without sacrificing the number of seats available.
2. Extended Range and Fuel Efficiency: The MD-83 Oasis was equipped with additional fuel tanks that extended its range, making it suitable for medium to long-haul flights. Its JT8D-219 engines were known for their fuel efficiency and reliability, which contributed to lower operating costs—an essential factor for low-cost carriers.
3. Advanced Avionics: The aircraft came with modern avionics for its time, enhancing navigation accuracy and safety. The cockpit was designed with a digital flight deck, integrating flight management systems that improved operational efficiency.

Operational History and Impact:

The MD-83 Oasis played a crucial role in the growth strategy of Oasis Hong Kong Airlines. The aircraft’s ability to operate long-haul routes at lower costs enabled the airline to offer highly competitive fares, challenging established carriers in the process.

However, the MD-83 Oasis’s operational history was not without challenges. The high-density seating, while cost-effective, led to criticisms regarding passenger comfort on longer flights. Additionally, the global financial crisis in 2008 severely impacted demand for air travel, particularly in the long-haul, low-cost segment, leading to financial difficulties for Oasis Hong Kong Airlines. The airline ceased operations in 2008, marking the end of an ambitious chapter in aviation history.

Despite its short-lived operational life with Oasis Hong Kong Airlines, the MD-83 Oasis remains a notable example of how aircraft can be adapted to meet specific market needs. It demonstrated the potential for narrow-body aircraft to operate efficiently on longer routes, paving the way for modern low-cost carriers to explore similar strategies with newer, more advanced aircraft.

The Legacy of the MD-83 Oasis:

While the MD-83 Oasis is no longer in operation, its legacy lives on in the lessons it provided to the aviation industry. The concept of maximizing aircraft utilization, optimizing cabin space for higher density, and leveraging aircraft versatility for various market demands are strategies still employed by airlines worldwide.

The MD-83 Oasis’s story is a testament to the innovative spirit of aviation, where airlines continuously seek to adapt and innovate to meet the ever-changing demands of the global travel market. Even as newer and more fuel-efficient aircraft like the Boeing 737 MAX and Airbus A320neo series dominate the skies, the MD-83 Oasis remains a fascinating chapter in the history of aviation.