Are all DC-9 's old? and How safe are they?

[curioustraveller]

I guess I posted this topic here because I thought there would be some knowledgeable folks.

I haven't flown on a DC-9 in years and I'm taking a trip next week with Northwest Airlines. The first leg of my trip is on a CRJ which I hear great things about but the second leg is on a DC-9. This bothers me for some reason - I am obviously not a frequent traveller and somewhat naive perhaps, but are these airplanes not being retired by most large airlines these days?

Thanks for any feedback from those much more in the know than I...

[dbaker]

Yes, all DC9s are old. They were made by MD before Boeing purchased them.

Northwest operates a very DC-9 heavy fleet with a very safety record. I wouldn't let it bother you at all.

For what it's worth, the DC9 will be much bigger and likely more comfortable than the CRJ.

Enjoy your trip.