The MD-11 was a pioneer in automation, replacing the three-person crew of the DC-10 with a two-pilot glass cockpit . The manual details several advanced systems: MD11 Flight Crew Operating Manual vol.2C rev.60 KLM.pdf

The Flight Crew Operating Manual (FCOM) is a critical document for pilots, providing detailed information on operating procedures, performance, and systems of an aircraft. For the MD-11, the FCOM would include sections on pre-flight checks, normal and abnormal procedures, emergency procedures, and performance data.

While most airliners have fixed flap "notches" (e.g., Flaps 1, 5, 15, 20), the MD-11 allows pilots to manually dial in between 10 and 25 degrees.

The MD-11’s legacy is preserved by , which continues to provide Commercial Services and support for the aging but reliable fleet.