The MD-83 in VIP configuration is an airliner-size option for Orlando groups that need twenty to forty seats in a private departure from KMCO. It is an older platform but still available as a VIP conversion, and it can offer competitive pricing on volume compared to newer narrowbody VIP types.
McDonnell Douglas built the MD-83 as a stretched, range-improved variant of the DC-9-80 with Pratt and Whitney JT8D-219 engines. VIP conversions seat twenty to forty passengers. The type is out of production but remains available as a VIP conversion. Aircraft in charter service operate under FAR Part 121; the type has a long operational history in both commercial and executive roles. [EXTERNAL_LINK] Every McDonnell Douglas MD-83 we arrange flies with an operator certificated under FAR Part 135, the FAA rules for on-demand, for-hire charter.
Performance and Cabin
- Category: VIP Airliner
- Manufacturer: McDonnell Douglas
- Year introduced: 1985
- Seating: 155 to 172
- Crew: 2
- Range: 2,550 nautical miles
- Cruise speed: 472 knots
- Service ceiling: 37,000 feet
- Length: 147.8 feet
- Wingspan: 107.8 feet
- Height: 29.6 feet
- Baggage volume: 1,253 cubic feet
- Lavatory: Enclosed
Why the McDonnell Douglas MD-83 Fits Orlando
The MD-83 occupies a niche position in the airliner-size charter market: available fleet is limited, the type is out of production, and it operates under FAR Part 121 standards. For Orlando groups that need forty seats on a domestic route and are flexible on cabin specification and technology, it can be a cost-effective option.
KMCO is the right departure point for this category. As with any older airframe in the airliner-size tier, we review operator certification, pilot qualifications on type, and the aircraft’s safety and operational history thoroughly before presenting it to a client. We do not book on price alone at this scale.
Gallery
Vetting Behind Every Trip
Every operator, aircraft, and crew goes through our internal due diligence before we present any options. Our internal standards meet or exceed what the FAA requires:
- FAR Part 135 charter operators for traditional private aircraft, or FAR Part 121 for airliner-size and group trips (or the foreign equivalent on international legs)
- Operator subscription to Wyvern and ARGUS reviewed where the operator participates; reports may be provided on request.
- Pilot experience and operator incident history reviewed before we recommend an aircraft.
- Fewer than 60 brokers worldwide hold Premium Wyvern Broker Member status, and Air Charter Advisors is one of them.
Charter Pricing Reference
Industry hourly rates for the McDonnell Douglas MD-83 run $18,000 to $25,000 per hour as of 8/2026. Actual quotes vary by operator, routing, positioning, and date.
Contact us for a current quote; MD-83 VIP rates vary significantly by operator and aircraft condition.
Other VIP Airliners Available
The full vip airliners category page lists every vip airliner we arrange for Orlando departures.
Contact
For a quote on a McDonnell Douglas MD-83 charter in or out of Orlando, call +1 (888) 987-5387 or head to our contact page. For the vetting work behind every trip, see our safety page. To browse cross-category options for the same trip, visit the aircraft directory.
The hourly rates provided are estimates based on 2026 market data and are for informational purposes only. These figures are subject to change and do not constitute a final offer. Final pricing is dynamic and depends on real-time factors including, but not limited to, specific itinerary requirements, aircraft positioning (“ferry” fees), fuel price volatility, and current market availability. These estimates exclude all applicable taxes, de-icing, landing and handling fees, special event fees, international surcharges, overnight crew expenses, and premium catering. Please contact Air Charter Advisors directly for a firm, all-inclusive quote tailored to your specific travel needs.