in 1991, mcdonnell douglas revealed that it was again considering developing a specialized 100-seat version of the md-80, initially named the "md-87-105" (105 seats). it was to be some shorter than the md-87, powered with engines in the thrust class. mcdonnell douglas, pratt & whitney, and the china national aero-technology import export agency signed a memorandum of understanding to develop a 105-seat version of the md-80. at the 1991 paris airshow, mcdonnell douglas announced the development of a 105-seat aircraft, designated "md-95". the new name was selected to reflect the anticipated year deliveries would begin. mcdonnell douglas first offered the md-95 for sale in 1994.