The MD-11 shares a similar cross-section, nose cone, tail cone,
and compartment configuration with the DC-10. However, several
important changes were made to increase the utility of the
aircraft as a freighter. These changes include a fuselage
extension, and the addition of a full size cargo door to
the forward belly compartment.
The MD-11 Freighter aircraft is extremely well suited to the
carriage of horses, livestock, and other live animals. All of
these aircraft have main cabins with exceptional temperature
control and a high throughput of fresh air. Some are also
fitted with additional air-conditioning packs in the nose,
for main cabin cooling.
Pallet Positions
Pallet Profiles
Pallet loading differs by position in the aircraft. Each of the
pallet positions accommodates different weights, depending on
the series and modification of the aircraft. Generally, those
positions directly over the wing spar have the greatest load
carrying capability, and those closest to the tail, the least.
In most cases, the weight limitations of the MD-11 closely
mirror those of the DC-10, allowing for the fact that the
ncreased payload capability of the MD-11 stems from the
greater number of pallet positions.
Cargo Compartments
The forward Belly 2 compartment accomodates six additional
full-size 96" x 125" Size M, Class 2 pallets. This compartment
features a cargo door larger than any other belly compartment,
enabling it to handle full pallet loads up to 66 inches. Due
to the unique climate control of the aircraft, it is possible
to carry animals that do not require in-flight attention in the
forward belly compartment of this aircraft.
The Belly 3 compartment door is smaller, but permits carriage
of much of the equipment shown on this site when collapsed,
however, it requires attention when stacking to utilize the
full volume of these compartments.
The lower aft lower compartment (Belly 4) handles bulk cargo
only, and is where domestic animals are stowed on passenger
flights. There is no in-flight access to this compartment.
Due to the small size of the aft compartment door, not much of
the equipment supplied here is able to utilize this volume,
whether assembled or collapsed.
Background
Several versions of the MD-11 have been produced including the "F"
designated freighter version, and the "CF" designated convertible
cargo-passenger version. No designation letter is used for the
standard passenger configuration.
Specifications
Aircraft
MD-11
MD-11 Main Deck Pallet Locations
The MD-11 F
The successor aircraft to the DC-10, the MD-11 Freighter is a
wide-bodied transport optimized for air-cargo duty.
The main deck of the MD-11 holds twenty-six pallets. Unlike
the DC-10, the MD-11 was designed to accommodate full-size
96" x 125" Size M, Class 2 pallets, in a parallel arrangement.
MD-11 Belly Pallet Locations
Pallet profiles differ by position in the aircraft. As a rule
of thumb, the maximum main cabin stack height is 97.5 inches.
The MD-11 shares the same fuselage cross-section as the DC-10,
consequently, the profiles are similar by position. Reference
the DC-10 page for greater definition of allowable profiles. In
general, the largest volumes are found between pallet positions
2 and 13, as the first and last positions are pinched by the
curvature of the fuselage.
MD-11 Cargo Compartments
Aside from the main deck, the MD-11 Freighter has three
separate lower, or belly compartments. All are pressurized,
and the forward (Belly 2) and aft (Belly 4) compartments are
temperature controlled.
MD-11 Cargo Doors
The MD-11 proceeds the older DC-10 aircraft by almost 23 years.
Although similar in appearance, it has better range and payload
than its predecessor. The MD-11 is most distinguishable from the
DC-10 by its greater length and span, and the addition of winglets.
The specifications and graphics provided apply specifically to
the MD-11 F aircraft. While this information is intended to
serve as a general guideline of aircraft capabilities, always
check with the aircraft operator for exact dimensions and
loading requirements. Exact configurations can vary considerably
from aircraft to aircraft.
Maximum gross payload
198,700 lbs. (90,318 kg)
Main deck container capacity
26 positions
Maximum payload range
4,425 statute miles (7,121 km)
Main cargo door dimensions
102.0" high x 140.0" wide
(355 x 259 cm)
Belly 2 cargo door dimensions
104" high x 66.0" wide
(264 x 167 cm)
Belly 3 cargo door dimensions
70.0" high x 66.0" wide
(177 x 167 cm)
Belly 4 cargo door dimensions
44.0" high x 48.0" wide
(111 x 122 cm)