The DC-8 is one of the earliest jet-powered commercial passenger aircraft. In the decade following its maiden flight, the DC-8 established commercial transport world records for speed, altitude, distance and payload.
From its inception, the four-engine DC-8 embodied advanced aerodynamic and structural concepts, as well as internal systems designed for maximum service reliability, operational convenience and passenger comfort.
Four basic DC-8 models were produced: the Series 10 through 50, in passenger, freighter and convertible freighter versions; and the Super 60 Series 61, 62 and 63, with freighter models of each.

The last of 556 DC-8 aircraft was delivered on May 13, 1972, marking the end of 15 years of production, at which time there were 48 operators in 28 nations.

Powered by four jet turbine engines, the DC-8 was capable of speeds of more than 600 mph. In a test dive, it became the first commercial transport of any kind to break the sound barrier.