Swissair was the first airline to operate the McDonnell Douglas MD-80 in commercial service in 1980.
Swissair introduced the aircraft, originally called the DC-9 Super 80, on 10 October 1980. The type was a stretched and improved development of the McDonnell Douglas DC-9, with quieter and more efficient engines and increased passenger capacity.
The aircraft was later marketed under the MD-80 family name, which covered several variants including the MD-81, MD-82, MD-83 and MD-88. It became especially common on short- and medium-haul routes.
American Airlines eventually became one of the largest MD-80 operators, but it was not the launch operator. Swissair’s early adoption gave the aircraft its first scheduled airline service.