Engineering:Boeing 737 Next Generation

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Short description: Airliner family by Boeing
Boeing 737 Next Generation
737-600/-700/-800/-900
Boeing 737-8AS, Ryanair AN1879342.jpg
The 737-800 is the best-selling 737NG variant. Ryanair (as seen in this picture) is one of its largest operators.
Role Narrow-body airliner
National origin United States
Manufacturer Boeing Commercial Airplanes
First flight February 9, 1997
Introduction December 17, 1997 with Southwest Airlines[1]
Status In service
Primary users Southwest Airlines
Ryanair
United Airlines
American Airlines
Produced 1996–2019 (civilian variants)[2]
1996–present (military variants)
Number built 7,108 (As of December 2023)[3]
Developed from Boeing 737 Classic
Variants Boeing Business Jet
Boeing 737 AEW&C
Boeing C-40 Clipper
Boeing P-8 Poseidon
Developed into Boeing 737 MAX

The Boeing 737 Next Generation, commonly abbreviated as 737NG, or 737 Next Gen, is a twin-engine narrow-body aircraft produced by Boeing Commercial Airplanes. Launched in 1993 as the third generation derivative of the Boeing 737, it has been produced since 1997[4] and is an upgrade of the 737 Classic (−300/-400/-500) series.

It has a redesigned wing with a larger area, a wider wingspan, greater fuel capacity, and higher maximum takeoff weights (MTOW) and longer range. It has CFM International CFM56-7 series engines, a glass cockpit, and upgraded and redesigned interior configurations. The series includes four variants, the −600/-700/-800/-900, seating between 108 and 215 passengers. The 737NG's primary competition is the Airbus A320 family.

(As of December 2023), a total of 7,124 737NG aircraft had been ordered, of which 7,108 had been delivered, with remaining orders for two -800, and 14 -800A variants. The most-ordered variant was the 737-800, with 4,991 commercial, 191 military, and 23 corporate, or a total of 5,205 aircraft. Boeing stopped assembling commercial 737NGs in 2019 and made the final deliveries in January 2020.[2] The 737NG is superseded by the fourth generation 737 MAX, introduced in 2017.

Development

The first 737NG, a 737-700, was rolled out on December 8, 1996, and first flew on February 9, 1997, it was later delivered to Southwest Airlines

Background

When regular Boeing customer United Airlines bought the more technologically advanced Airbus A320 with fly-by-wire controls, this prompted Boeing to update the slower, shorter-range 737 Classic variants into the more efficient, longer New Generation variants.[5] In 1991, Boeing initiated development of an updated series of aircraft.[6] After working with potential customers, the 737 Next Generation (NG) program was announced on November 17, 1993.[7]

Testing

The first NG to roll out was a 737−700, on December 8, 1996. This aircraft, the 2,843rd 737 built, first flew on February 9, 1997, with pilots Mike Hewett and Ken Higgins. The prototype 737−800 rolled out on June 30, 1997, and first flew on July 31, 1997, piloted by Jim McRoberts and again by Hewett. The smallest of the new variants, the −600 series, is identical in size to the −500, launching in December 1997 with an initial flight occurring January 22, 1998; it was granted FAA certification on August 18, 1998.[7][8] The flight test program used 10 aircraft: 3 -600s, 4 -700s, and 3 -800s.[7]

Enhancements

In 2004, Boeing offered a Short Field Performance package in response to the needs of Gol Transportes Aéreos, which frequently operates from restricted airports. The enhancements improve takeoff and landing performance. The optional package is available for the 737NG models and standard equipment for the 737-900ER.

In July 2008, Boeing offered Messier-Bugatti-Dowty's new carbon brakes for the Next-Gen 737s, which are intended to replace steel brakes and will reduce the weight of the brake package by 550–700 pounds (250–320 kg) depending on whether standard or high-capacity steel brakes were fitted. A weight reduction of 700 pounds (320 kg) on a 737-800 results in 0.5% reduction in fuel burn.[9] Delta Air Lines received the first Next-Gen 737 model with this brake package, a 737-700, at the end of July 2008.[10]

The CFM56-7B Evolution nacelle began testing in August 2009 to be used on the new 737 PIP (Performance Improvement Package) due to enter service mid-2011. This new improvement is said to shave at least 1% off the overall drag and have some weight benefits. Overall, it is claimed to have a 2% improvement on fuel burn on longer stages.[11]

Enhanced Short Runway Package

This short-field design package is an option on the 737-600, -700, and -800 and is standard equipment for the new 737-900ER. These enhanced short runway versions could increase pay or fuel loads when operating on runways under 5,000 feet (1,500 m). Landing payloads were increased by up to 8,000 lb on the 737-800 and 737-900ER and up to 4,000 lb on the 737-600 and 737-700. Takeoff payloads were increased by up to 2,000 lb on the 737-800 and 737-900ER and up to 400 lb on the 737-600 and 737-700. The package includes:[12]

  • A winglet lift credit, achieved through additional winglet testing, that reduces the minimum landing-approach speeds.
  • Takeoff performance improvements such as the use of sealed leading-edge slats on all takeoff flap positions, allowing the airplane to climb more rapidly on shorter runways.
  • A reduced idle thrust transition delay between approach and ground-idle speeds, which improves stopping distances and increases field-length-limited landing weight
  • Increased flight-spoiler deflection from 30o to 60o, improving aerodynamic braking on landing.
  • A two-position tail skid at the rear of the aircraft to protect against inadvertent tailstrikes during landing, which allows higher aircraft approach attitudes and lower landing speeds

The first enhanced version was delivered to Gol Transportes Aéreos (GOL) on July 31, 2006. At that time, twelve customers had ordered the package for more than 250 airframes. Customers include: GOL, Alaska Airlines, Air Europa, Air India, Egyptair, GE Commercial Aviation Services (GECAS), Hapagfly, Japan Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, Ryanair, Sky Airlines and Turkish Airlines.[13]

Structural problems

In 2005, three ex-Boeing employees filed a lawsuit on behalf of the U.S. government, claiming that dozens of 737NG contained defective structural elements supplied by airframe manufacturer Ducommun, allegations denied by Boeing.[14][15] The federal judge presiding the case sided with Boeing, and a subsequent court of appeal also ruled in favor of the company.[16] A 2010 documentary by Al Jazeera alleged that in three crashes involving 737NGs – Turkish Airlines Flight 1951, American Airlines Flight 331, and AIRES Flight 8250 – the fuselage broke up following impact with the ground because of the defective structural components that were the subject of the 2005 lawsuit.[17] However, the accident investigations in all three cases did not highlight any link between post-impact structural failures and manufacturing issues.

During an inspection of a 737NG in 2019 that had 35,000 flights, fatigue cracks were found on a fuselage-to-wing attachment known as a "pickle fork", designed to last a lifetime of 90,000 flights. Boeing reported the issue to the FAA at the end of September 2019, and more planes showed similar cracking after inspection.[18] The cracks were found in an airliner with more than 33,500 flights, when it was stripped down for conversion to freighter. Aircraft with more than 30,000 flights (15 years at 2,000 flights per year) should be inspected within one week, while those with over 22,600 flights (11 years) should be inspected within one year.[19] The FAA Airworthiness Directive (AD) was issued on October 3, 2019.[20]

Of the 500 first inspected aircraft, 5% (25) had cracks and were grounded; Boeing expected to repair the first aircraft three weeks after the issuance of the directive, serving as the template for the resulting Service bulletin.[21] Of the 810 examined aircraft over 30,000 cycles, 38 had structural cracks (4.7%), leaving 1,911 737NGs over 22,600 cycles to be inspected within their next 1,000 cycles, i.e., nearly all of the US in-service fleet of 1,930.[22] By early November, 1,200 aircraft were inspected, with cracks on about 60 (5%). Cracks were discovered near fasteners outside the original area in four airplanes. On November 5, Boeing recommended expanding the checks to include them, to be mandated in a November 13 FAA AD. Aircraft below 30,000 cycles were to be reinspected within 1,000 cycles, within 60 days above. About one-quarter of the global NG fleet of 6,300 aircraft were to be inspected.[23]

Following the contained engine failure of the Southwest Airlines Flight 1380 on April 17, 2018, the NTSB recommended on November 19, 2019, to redesign and retrofit its nacelle for the 6,800 airplanes in service.[24]

Production

The production rate of the Boeing Renton Factory went from 31.5 to 52 per month

Boeing was to increase 737 production from 31.5 units per month in September 2010 to 35 in January 2012 and to 38 units per month in 2013.[25] Production rate was 42 units per month in 2014, and was planned to reach rates of 47 units per month in 2017 and 52 units per month in 2018.[26][27][28]

In 2016, the monthly production rate was targeted to reach 57 units per month in 2019, even to the factory limit of 63 units later. A single airplane was then produced in the Boeing Renton Factory in 10 days, less than half what it was a few years before. The empty fuselage from Spirit AeroSystems in Wichita, Kansas, enters the plant on Day 1. Electrical wiring is installed on Day 2 and hydraulic machinery on Day 3. On Day 4 the fuselage is crane-lifted and rotated 90 degrees, wings are mated to the airplane in a six-hour process, along with landing gear, and the airplane is again rotated 90°. The final assembly process begins on Day 6 with the installation of airline seats, galleys, lavatories, overhead bins, etc. Engines are attached on Day 8 and it rolls out of the factory for test flights on Day 10.[29]

Boeing stopped assembling passenger 737NGs in 2019. The last aircraft assembled was a 737-800 registered PH-BCL delivered to KLM in December 2019; the last two deliveries were to China Eastern Airlines on January 5, 2020. Production of the P-8 Poseidon variant continues.[2]

The FAA has proposed a fine of approximately $3.9 million for Boeing's alleged installation of the same faulty components of the 737 MAX on some one hundred and thirty-three 737 NGs.[30]

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has put forward an Airworthiness Directive (AD) for the Boeing 737 NG aircraft following a tragic incident involving a dangerous loss of cabin pressure.[31]

Further developments

The Boeing 737 MAX first flew on January 29, 2016

From 2006, Boeing discussed replacing the 737 with a "clean sheet" design (internally named "Boeing Y1") that could follow the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.[32] A decision on this replacement was postponed, and delayed into 2011.[33]

In 2011, Boeing launched the 737 MAX, an updated and re-engined version of the 737NG with more efficient CFM International LEAP-1B engines, and aerodynamic changes with distinctive split-tip winglets.[34] The first 737 MAX performed its first flight in January 2016.[35] The fourth generation 737 MAX supersedes the third generation 737NG.

Design

Planform view of 737NG showing the 25% larger and 16 ft (4.9 m) wider wing compared to the 737 Classic
Boeing 737-800 glass cockpit

The wing was redesigned with a new thinner airfoil section, and a greater chord and increased wing span (by 16 ft (4.9 m)) increased the wing area by 25%, which also increased total fuel capacity by 30%. New quieter and more fuel-efficient CFM56-7B engines are used.[36] Higher MTOWs are offered. The 737NG includes redesigned vertical stabilizers, and winglets are available on most models.[37]

The 737NG encompasses the -600, -700, -800, and -900 with improved performance and commonality retained from previous 737 models. The wing, engine, and fuel capacity improvements combined increase the 737's range by 900 nautical miles [nmi] (1,700 km; 1,000 mi) to over 3,000 nmi (5,600 km; 3,500 mi),[38] permitting transcontinental service.[39]

The Speed Trim System, introduced on the 737 Classic, has been updated for the 737NG to include a stall identification function. Originally inhibited in high alpha scenarios, STS operates at any speed on the 737NG. STS is triggered by airspeed sensor and commands Airplane Nose Down as the airplane slows down.[40]

Interior

The flight deck was upgraded with modern avionics, and passenger cabin improvements similar to those on the Boeing 777, including more curved surfaces and larger overhead bins than previous-generation 737s. The Next Generation 737 interior was also adopted on the Boeing 757-300.[41] This improved on the previous interior of the Boeing 757-200 and the Boeing 737 Classic variants, the new interior became optional on the 757-200.

In 2010, new interior options for the 737NG included the 787-style Boeing Sky Interior.[11] It introduced new pivoting overhead bins (a first for a Boeing narrow-body aircraft), new sidewalls, new passenger service units, and LED mood lighting. Boeing's newer "Space Bins" can carry 50 percent more than the pivoting bins, thus allowing a 737-800 to hold 174 carry-on bags.[42] Boeing also offered it as a retrofit for older 737NG aircraft.[43]

Variants

737-600

The 737-600 is the shortest at 102 ft 6 in (31.24 m), SAS received the first in September 1998

The 737-600 was launched by SAS in March 1995, with the first aircraft delivered in September 1998.[44] A total of 69 have been produced, with the last aircraft delivered to WestJet in 2006.[3] Boeing displayed the 737-600 in its price list until August 2012.[45] The 737-600 replaces the 737-500 and is similar to the Airbus A318. Winglets were not an option.[46] WestJet was to launch the -600 with winglets, but dropped them in 2006.

737-700

The 737-700 is 110 ft 4 in (33.63 m) long and has a single overwing exit per side, Southwest Airlines took delivery of the first one in December 1997

In November 1993, Southwest Airlines launched the Next-Generation program with an order for 63 737-700s and took delivery of the first one in December 1997.[1] It replaced the 737-300, typically seating 126 passengers in two classes to 149 in all-economy configuration, similar to the Airbus A319.

In long-range cruise, it burns 4,440 lb (2,010 kg) per hour at Mach 0.785 (519 kn; 962 km/h)[convert: invalid option] and FL410, increasing to 4,620–4,752 lb (2,096–2,155 kg) at Mach 0.80–Mach 0.82 (529–542 kn; 980–1,005 km/h)[convert: invalid option].[47] As of July 2018, all -700 series on order, 1,128 -700, 120 -700 BBJ, 20 -700C, and 14 -700W aircraft, have been delivered.[3] By June 2018, around one thousand were in service: half of them with Southwest Airlines, followed by Westjet with 56 and United Airlines with 39. The value of a new -700 stayed around $35 million from 2008 to 2018. A 2003 aircraft was valued for $15.5 million in 2016 and $12 million in 2018 and will be scrapped for $6 million by 2023.[48][unreliable source?]

The 737-700C is a convertible version where the seats can be removed to carry cargo instead. There is a large door on the left side of the aircraft. The United States Navy was the launch customer for the 737-700C under the military designation C-40 Clipper.[49]

737-700ER

Boeing launched the 737-700ER (Extended Range) on January 31, 2006, with All Nippon Airways as the launch customer. Inspired by the Boeing Business Jet, it features the fuselage of the 737-700 and the wings and landing gear of the 737-800. When outfitted with nine auxiliary fuel tanks, it can hold 10,707 gallons (40,530 L) of fuel with a 171,000 lb (77,565 kg) MTOW, but with a cargo payload capacity significantly decreased from 966 to 165 cu ft (27.4 to 4.7 m3), trading payload for increased range of 5,775 nmi (10,695 km).[50] The first was delivered on February 16, 2007, to ANA with 24 business class and 24 premium economy seats only. A 737-700 can typically accommodate 126 passengers in two classes.[51] It is similar to the Airbus A319LR.

737-800

The 129 ft 6 in (39.47 m) long 737-800 has two overwing exits on each side, Hapag-Lloyd received the first in April 1998

The Boeing 737-800 is a stretched version of the 737-700. It replaced the 737-400 and competes primarily with the Airbus A320. The 737-800 seats 162 passengers in a two-class layout or 189 passengers in a one-class layout. The 737−800 was launched on September 5, 1994.[4] Launch customer Hapag-Lloyd Flug (now TUI fly Deutschland) received the first one in April 1998.[52]

Following Boeing's merger with McDonnell Douglas, the 737-800 also filled the gap left by Boeing's decision to discontinue the McDonnell Douglas MD-80 and MD-90 aircraft. For many airlines in the U.S., the 737-800 replaced aging Boeing 727-200 trijets.

The 737-800 burns 850 US gallons (3,200 L) of jet fuel per hour—about 80 percent of the fuel used by an MD-80 on a comparable flight, while carrying more passengers.[53] The Airline Monitor, an industry publication, quotes a 737-800 fuel burn of 4.88 US gal (18.5 L) per seat per hour, compared to 5.13 US gal (19.4 L) for the A320.[54] In 2011, United Airlines— flying a Boeing 737-800 from Houston to Chicago—operated the first U.S. commercial flight powered by a blend of algae-derived biofuel and traditional jet fuel to reduce its carbon footprint.[55]

In early 2017, a new 737-800 was valued at $48.3 million, falling to below $47 million by mid-2018.[56][unreliable source?] By 2025, a 17-year-old 737-800W will be worth $9.5 million and leased for $140,000 per month.[57][unreliable source?]

As of May 2019, Boeing had delivered 4,979 737-800s, 116 737-800As, and 21 737-800 BBJ2s, and has twelve 737-800 unfilled orders.[3] The 737-800 is the best-selling variant of the 737NG and is the most widely used narrow-body aircraft.[58] Ryanair, an Irish low-cost airline, is among the largest operators of the Boeing 737-800, with a fleet of over 400 of the -800 variant serving routes across Europe, Middle East, and North Africa.[59]

737-800BCF

The first 737-800BCF Boeing Converted Freighter was delivered to West Atlantic in April 2018

In February 2016, Boeing launched a passenger-to-freighter conversion program, with converted aircraft designated as 737-800BCF (for Boeing Converted Freighter). Boeing started the program with orders for 55 conversions, with the first converted aircraft due for late 2017 delivery.[60] The first converted aircraft was delivered to West Atlantic in April 2018.[61]

At the 2018 Farnborough Airshow, GECAS announced an agreement for 20 firm orders and 15 option orders for the 737-800BCF, raising the commitment to 50 aircraft. Total orders and commitments include 80 aircraft to over half a dozen customers.[62] Since early 737NG aircraft become available on the market, they have been actively marketed to be converted to cargo planes via the Boeing Converted Freighter design because the operational economics are attractive due to the low operating costs and availability of certified pilots on a robust airframe.[citation needed]

Modifications to the 737-800 airframe include installing a large cargo door, a cargo handling system, and additional accommodations for non-flying crew or passengers.[62] The aircraft is designed to fly up to 1,995 nmi (3,695 km; 2,296 mi) at a MTOW of 174,100 lb (79,000 kg).[63]

737-800SF

In 2015, Boeing launched the 737-800SF passenger to freighter conversion program with Aeronautical Engineers Inc (AEI). The conversion can be completed by AEI or third-parties such as HAECO. GECAS was the initial customer. It has a 52,800 lb (23.9 tonnes) payload capacity, and a range of 2,000 nmi (3,750 km).[64] It received its supplemental type certificate from the FAA in early 2019.[65] In March 2019, the first AEI converted aircraft was delivered to Ethiopian Airlines on lease from GECAS.[66] The Civil Aviation Administration of China cleared it in January 2020.[67] Aircraft lessor Macquarie AirFinance ordered four 737-800SFs in March 2021.[68]

737-900

Stretched to 138 ft 2 in (42.11 m) and keeping the double overwing exits, the first 737-900 was delivered to Alaska Airlines on May 15, 2001

Boeing later introduced the 737-900, an even longer variant stretched to 138 ft 2 in (42.11 m). Because the −900 retains the same exit configuration of the −800, seating capacity is limited to 189, although aircraft equipped with a typical 2-class layout will seat approximately 177. The 737-900 also retains the MTOW and fuel capacity of the −800, trading range for payload. Alaska Airlines launched the 737-900 in 1997, the 737-900 made its first flight on August 3, 2000, and Alaska Airlines accepted the delivery on May 15, 2001. The type proved unpopular, with only 52 delivered, before being replaced by the improved 737-900ER.[3]

737-900ER

The 737-900ER features an extra door aft of the wing, Lion Air received the first one on April 27, 2007

The 737-900ER (Extended Range), which was called the 737-900X before launch, was the final and largest variant of the Boeing 737 NG line. It was introduced to fill the range and passenger capacity gap in Boeing's product offerings after the 757-200 was discontinued, address the shortcomings of the 737-900, and to directly compete with the Airbus A321.

Up to two auxiliary fuel tanks in the cargo hold and standard winglets improved the range of the stretched jet to that of other 737NG variants, while an additional pair of exit doors and a flat rear pressure bulkhead increased maximum seating capacity to 220 passengers.[69][70] Airlines may deactivate (plug) the additional exit doors if the total configured capacity of the plane is 189 passengers or less.[70]

The first 737-900ER was rolled out of the Renton, Washington, factory on August 8, 2006, for its launch customer, Lion Air, an Indonesian low-cost airline. The airline received this aircraft on April 27, 2007, in a special dual paint scheme combining Lion Air's logo on the vertical stabilizer and Boeing's livery colors on the fuselage. A total of 505 -900ERs were delivered.[3]

Military models

Airborne early warning and control with a Boeing 737 AEW&C
  • Boeing 737 AEW&C: The Boeing 737 AEW&C is a 737-700IGW roughly similar to the 737-700ER. This is an airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) version of the 737NG. Royal Australian Air Force was the first customer (as Project Wedgetail), followed by Turkey, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States.[71]
  • C-40 Clipper: The C-40A Clipper is a 737-700C used by the U.S. Navy as a replacement for the C-9B Skytrain II. The C-40B and C-40C are based on the BBJ (see below) and used by the U.S. Air Force for transport of generals and other senior leaders.
  • P-8 Poseidon: The P-8 is a 737-800ERX ("Extended Range") that was selected by the US Navy on June 14, 2004, to replace the Lockheed P-3 Orion maritime patrol aircraft.[72] The P-8 is unique in that it has 767-400ER-style raked wingtips instead of the blended winglets available on 737NG variants. The P-8 is designated 737-800A by Boeing.[73]

Boeing Business Jet

A typical BBJ cabin

In the late 1980s, Boeing marketed the Boeing 77-33 jet, a business jet version of the 737-300.[74][page needed] The name was short-lived. After the introduction of the next generation series, Boeing introduced the Boeing Business Jet (BBJ). The BBJ (retroactively referred to as the BBJ1) was similar in dimensions to the 737-700 but had additional features, including stronger wings and landing gear from the 737-800, and has increased range (through the use of extra fuel tanks) over the other various 737 models. The first BBJ rolled out on August 11, 1998, and flew for the first time on September 4.[75] A total of 113 BBJ1s were delivered to customers.[3]

On October 11, 1999, Boeing launched the BBJ2. Based on the 737-800, it is 19 ft 2 in (5.84 m) longer than the BBJ1, with 25% more cabin space and twice the baggage space, but with slightly reduced range. It is also fitted with auxiliary fuel tanks in the cargo hold and winglets. The first BBJ2 was delivered on February 28, 2001.[75] A total of 23 BBJ2s were delivered to customers.[3]

The BBJ3 aircraft is based on the 737-900ER aircraft.[76] The BBJ3 is approximately 16 feet (4.9 m) longer than the BBJ2 and has a slightly shorter range.[77] Seven BBJ3s were delivered to customers.[3]

Operators

As of July 2018, 6,343 Boeing 737 Next Generation aircraft were in commercial service. This comprised 69 -600s, 1,027 -700s, 4,764 -800s and 513 -900s.[78]

Orders and deliveries

Aircraft Orders Deliveries
Model series Total Unfilled Total 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
737-600 69 — 69 — — — — — — — —
737-700 1,128 — 1,128 — — — — — 2 4 6
737-700C 5 — 5 — — — — — — — 2
737-800 4,991 2 4,989 — — — 2 28 269 397 411
737-900 52 — 52 — — — — — — — —
737-900ER 505 — 505 — — — — 22 34 37 52
(Commercial Jets) 6,750 2 6,748 — — — 2 50 305 438 471
737-700W 14 — 14 — — — — — — — —
737-800A 191 14 177 9 12 16 14 17 18 17 18
C-40A 17 — 17 — — — 2 — — 1 —
C-40B/C 9 — 9 — — — — — — — —
(Military jets) 231 14 217 9 12 16 14 19 18 17 19
BBJ 737-700 113 — 113 — 1 — — 1 1 — —
BBJ 737-800 23 — 23 — — 2 — — — — —
BBJ 737-900 7 — 7 — — — — — — — —
(Business jets) 143 — 143 — 1 2 — 1 1 — —
(737 NextGen) 7,124 16 7,108 9 13 18 16 70 324 455 490
Aircraft Deliveries
Model series 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997
737-600 — — — — — — — — 10 3 3 6 5 4 6 24 8 — —
737-700 7 11 12 7 43 23 51 61 101 103 93 109 80 71 85 75 96 85 3
737-700C — — — — — — — 1 — — — — — — 2 — — — —
737-800 396 386 347 351 292 323 283 190 214 172 104 78 69 126 168 185 133 65 —
737-900 — — — — — — — — — — 6 6 11 8 21 — — — —
737-900ER 73 70 67 44 24 15 28 30 9 — — — — — — — — — —
(Commercial Jets) 476 467 426 402 359 361 362 282 334 278 206 199 165 209 282 284 237 150 3
737-700W — — — — — 2 2 — — 5 2 1 1 1 — — — — —
737-800A 15 13 8 9 5 1 3 2 — — — — — — — — — — —
C-40A — 2 — — 1 2 — — — 1 — 2 — 2 1 3 — — —
C-40B/C — — — — 1 — — — 1 2 — — 2 1 1 1 — — —
(Military jets) 15 15 8 9 7 5 5 2 1 8 2 3 3 4 2 4 — — —
BBJ 737-700 3 1 5 2 6 4 4 4 5 7 3 3 1 7 12 10 25 8 —
BBJ 737-800 — 2 1 2 — 2 — 1 — 2 1 — 3 2 5 — — — —
BBJ 737-900 1 — — — — 4 1 1 — — — — — — — — — — —
(Business jets) 4 3 6 4 6 10 5 6 5 9 4 3 4 9 17 10 25 8 —
(737 NextGen) 495 485 440 415 372 376 372 290 330 302 212 202 173 223 299 280 278 166 3

Data (As of December 2023)[3]

Accidents and incidents

The Boeing 737 Next Generation series has been involved in 22 hull-loss accidents and 13 hijackings, for a total of 767 fatalities, according to the Aviation Safety Network, (As of January 2020 ).[79] An analysis by Boeing of commercial airplane accidents in the period 1959–2017 showed that the Next Generation series had a hull loss rate of 0.17 per million departures compared to 0.71 for the classic series and 1.75 for the original series.[80] The deadliest occurrence for a 737NG is Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 that was shot down after takeoff on January 8, 2020 in Iran, killing all 176 passengers and crew.[81]

Specifications

Boeing 737 characteristics[82]
Variant 737-600 737-700 737-800 737-900ER
Cockpit crew Two
2-class:56–62 108 (8F @36" 100Y @32") 128 (8F @36" 120Y @32") 160 (12F @36" 148Y @32") 177 (12F @36" 165Y @32")
1-class:56–62 123 @32" - 130 @30" 140 @32" - 148 @30" 175 @32" - 184 @30" 177 @32" - 215 @28"
Exit Limit[83] 149 189 220
Seat width:67 First: 22 in / 56 cm; Economy: 17 in / 43 cm
Length:34–41 102 ft 6 in / 31.24 m 110 ft 4 in / 33.63 m 129 ft 6 in / 39.47 m 138 ft 2 in / 42.11 m
Height:34–41 41 ft 3 in / 12.57 m 41 ft 2 in / 12.55 m
Wing[84] Span: 112 ft 7 in / 34.32 m, with winglets: 117 ft 5 in / 35.79 m;:34–41 Area: 124.60 m2 (1,341.2 sq ft); Sweepback: 25°; AR: 9.44
Fuselage:67 Width: 12 ft 4 in (3.76 m); Cabin width: 11 ft 7 in (3.53 m); Cabin height: 86.6 in (2.20 m)
OEW:21–24 80,200 lb / 36,378 kg 83,000 lb / 37,648 kg 91,300 lb / 41,413 kg 98,495 lb / 44,677 kg
MTOW:21–24 144,500 lb / 65,544 kg 154,500 lb / 70,080 kg 174,200 lb / 79,016 kg 187,700 lb / 85,139 kg
Fuel capacity:21–24 6,875 US gal / 26,022 L 7,837 US gal / 29,666 L[lower-alpha 1]
Lower deck cargo:21–24 720 ft³ / 20.4 m3 966 ft³ / 27.4 m3 1,555 ft³ / 44.1 m3 1,826 ft³ / 51.7 m3
Takeoff run[lower-alpha 2][84] 6,161 ft (1,878 m) 6,699 ft (2,042 m) 7,598 ft (2,316 m) 9,800 ft (3,000 m):159
Flight envelope[83] 41,000 feet (12,497 m) Ceiling, Mach 0.82 (542 kn; 1,005 km/h)[convert: invalid option] MMo
Cruise[85] Mach 0.785 (519 kn; 962 km/h)* Mach 0.781 (517 kn; 957 km/h)* Mach 0.789 (522 kn; 967 km/h)* Mach 0.79 (523 kn; 968 km/h)*
Range[86] 3,235 nmi (5,991 km; 3,723 mi)[lower-alpha 3][85] 3,010 nmi (5,570 km; 3,460 mi)[lower-alpha 4] 2,935 nmi (5,436 km; 3,378 mi)[lower-alpha 5] 2,950 nmi (5,460 km; 3,390 mi)[lower-alpha 6]
Engines (× 2) CFM56-7B18/20/22:126–133 CFM56-7B20/22/24/26/27:134–149 CFM56-7B24/26/27:150–161
Thrust (× 2) 20,000–22,000 lbf
89–98 kN:126–133 		20,000–26,000 lbf
89–116 kN:134–149 		24,000–27,000 lbf
110–120 kN:150–153 		24,000–27,000 lbf
110–120 kN:154–161
Cruise max. thrust[lower-alpha 7][87] 5,960 lbf (26.5 kN) (climb)
Engine dimensions[87] Fan tip diameter: 61 in (155 cm), length: 103.50 in (263 cm)
Engine ground clearance 18 in / 46 cm:44 19 in / 48 cm:45
ICAO Type Designator[88] B736 B737 B738 B739
  1. ↑ two auxiliary tanks
  2. ↑ MTOW, sea level, ISA+20 °C
  3. ↑ 110 passengers
  4. ↑ 126 passengers
  5. ↑ 162 passengers
  6. ↑ 178 passengers
  7. ↑ 35,000 ft – Mach 0.8 – ISA

See also

Related development

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

Related lists

References

Notes

Citations

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 "First Boeing 737-700 Goes to Southwest Airlines" (Press release). Boeing. 1997-12-17. Archived from the original on June 9, 2018. Retrieved June 11, 2018.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 Hemmerdinger, Jon (April 14, 2020). "Boeing delivered final commercial 737NG in January, ending 23 years of production". Flight Global. https://www.flightglobal.com/airframers/boeing-delivered-final-commercial-737ng-in-january-ending-23-years-of-production/137879.article. 
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.8 3.9 "Boeing: Orders and Deliveries (updated monthly)". boeing.com. December 31, 2023. https://www.boeing.com/commercial/#/orders-deliveries. 
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 "Boeing: Historical Snapshot: 737". Boeing. https://www.boeing.com/history/products/737-classic.page. 
  5. ↑ "Leahy reflects on 33 years at Airbus". Leeham. November 28, 2017. https://leehamnews.com/2017/11/28/leahy-reflects-33-years-airbus/. 
  6. ↑ Endres 2001, p. 132.
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 7.2 Shaw 1999, p. 8
  8. ↑ Shaw 1999, pp. 14-15.
  9. ↑ Wilhelm, Steve. "Mindful of rivals, Boeing keeps tinkering with its 737" . Puget Sound Business Journal, August 11, 2008. Retrieved September 11, 2013.
  10. ↑ "Boeing Next-Generation 737 Carbon Brakes Earn FAA Certification" . Boeing Press Release, August 4, 2008. Retrieved August 30, 2009.
  11. ↑ 11.0 11.1 Kingsley-Jones, Max (October 27, 2009). "Narrow margins: Airbus and Boeing face pressure with the A-320 and 737". Flightglobal. http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/narrow-margins-airbus-and-boeing-face-pressure-with-the-a320-and-737-333973. 
  12. ↑ Swatton, P. J. (2000). "Landing Speeds". Aircraft Performance Theory for Pilots. Blackwell Science. pp. 149–151. doi:10.1002/9780470693827.ch19. ISBN 978-0-470-69382-7. 
  13. ↑ "Boeing Delivers First 737 with Enhanced Short Runway Package to GOL". Boeing. July 31, 2006. http://boeing.mediaroom.com/2006-07-31-Boeing-Delivers-First-737-with-Enhanced-Short-Runway-Package-to-GOL. 
  14. ↑ Sylvester, Ron (May 28, 2005). "Boeing lawsuit alleges "bogus" parts". The Seattle Times. http://old.seattletimes.com/html/boeingaerospace/2002291296_boeingparts28.html. 
  15. ↑ "Report alleges faulty parts in jets". United Press International. August 21, 2006. http://www.upi.com/Top_News/2006/08/21/Report-alleges-faulty-parts-in-jets/UPI-75931156177507/. 
  16. ↑ "Appeals court sides with Boeing in whistleblower lawsuit". The Washington Times. Associated Press. June 13, 2016. https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2016/jun/13/appeals-court-sides-with-boeing-in-whistleblower-l/. 
  17. ↑ "On a wing and a prayer". Al Jazeera. December 15, 2010. https://www.aljazeera.com/programmes/peopleandpower/2010/12/20101214104637901849.html. 
  18. ↑ Charlie Harger (September 28, 2019). "Unexpected cracking found on critical Boeing 737 Next Generation part". KOMO Newsradio. https://komonews.com/news/local/exclusive-unexpected-cracking-found-on-critical-boeing-737ng-equipment. 
  19. ↑ Bjorn Fehrm (October 1, 2019). "Boeing's 737 in another pickle". Leeham News. https://leehamnews.com/2019/09/30/boeings-737-in-another-pickle/. 
  20. ↑ "Airworthiness Directive No. 2019-20-02". FAA. October 3, 2019. http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgad.nsf/0/b7003a93c909869e8625848800467eb9/$FILE/2019-20-02.pdf. 
  21. ↑ Bjorn Fehrm (October 8, 2019). "Boeing's 737 in another pickle, Part 2". Leeham News. https://leehamnews.com/2019/10/08/boeings-737-in-another-pickle-part-2/. 
  22. ↑ Tom Risen (October 10, 2019). "Boeing reports 38 cracks on global 737NG fleet". Flightglobal. https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing-reports-38-cracks-on-global-737ng-fleet-461415/. 
  23. ↑ Sean Broderick (November 12, 2019). "New Issue Prompts Expansion Of 737 Pickle Fork Checks". Aviation Week Network. https://aviationweek.com/commercial-aviation/new-issue-prompts-expansion-737-pickle-fork-checks. 
  24. ↑ Dominic Gates (November 19, 2019). "NTSB recommends Boeing redesign and retrofit engine casing on thousands of 737s". The Seattle Times. https://www.seattletimes.com/business/boeing-aerospace/ntsb-recommends-boeing-redesign-and-retrofit-engine-casing-on-thousands-of-737s/. 
  25. ↑ "Boeing ups 737 production rate". Flightglobal. September 17, 2010. http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing-ups-737-production-rate-347460. 
  26. ↑ "Boeing to Increase 737 Production Rate to 52 per Month in 2018" (Press release). Boeing. October 2, 2014. Archived from the original on October 4, 2015.
  27. ↑ "737 derailment probe 'suggests' track alignment issue". Flightglobal. November 5, 2014. http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/737-derailment-probe-39suggests39-track-alignment-405638/. 
  28. ↑ Anselmo, Joe (March 2, 2015). "Analysts Flag Potential Airliner Glut". Aviation Week & Space Technology. http://aviationweek.com/commercial-aviation/analysts-flag-potential-airliner-glut. 
  29. ↑ "11th 737 MAX on the assembly line as Boeing gears up for delivery next year". Leeham News. October 11, 2016. https://leehamnews.com/2016/10/11/11th-737-max-assembly-line-boeing-gears-delivery-next-year/. 
  30. ↑ "U.S. regulator seeks to fine Boeing $5.4 million for defective parts on 737 MAX planes". Reuters. 2020-01-11. https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-boeing-idUSKBN1Z92DA. 
  31. ↑ "FAA proposes AD for Boeing 737 NG after deadly depressurization incident" (in en). https://www.globalair.com/articles/faa-proposes-ad-for-boeing-737-ng-after-deadly-depressurization-incident?id=6736. 
  32. ↑ "Boeing firms up 737 replacement studies by appointing team" . Flight International, March 3, 2006. Retrieved April 13, 2008.
  33. ↑ Hamilton, Scott. "737 decision may slip to 2011: Credit Suisse" . flightglobal, 2010. Retrieved June 26, 2010.
  34. ↑ "Boeing Launches 737 New Engine Family with Commitments for 496 Airplanes from Five Airlines" (Press release). Boeing. August 30, 2011. Archived from the original on October 4, 2015. Retrieved October 1, 2019.
  35. ↑ "Boeing's 737 MAX takes wing with new engines, high hopes". January 29, 2016. http://www.seattletimes.com/business/boeing-aerospace/boeings-737-max-takes-off-on-first-flight/. 
  36. ↑ Endres 2001, p. 133.
  37. ↑ "Aero 17 - Blended Winglets". Boeing. 2009. http://www.boeing.com/commercial/aeromagazine/aero_17/winglet_story.html. 
  38. ↑ "About the 737 Family". Boeing. http://www.boeing.com/boeing/commercial/737family/background.page. 
  39. ↑ Shaw 1999, p. 8
  40. ↑ Peter Lemme (October 28, 2019). "Flawed Assumptions Pave a Path to Disaster". https://www.satcom.guru/2019/10/flawed-assumptions-pave-path-to-disaster.html. 
  41. ↑ Norris & Wagner 1999, pp. 101–02.
  42. ↑ Perry, Dominic (7 April 2015), "Boeing thinks smarter to boost 777, 737 appeal", Flightglobal (Reed Business Information), http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/interiors-boeing-thinks-smarter-to-boost-777-737-appeal-410498/, retrieved 8 April 2015 
  43. ↑ "Boeing Sky Interior offered for 737NG retrofits - Runway Girl". December 30, 2013. https://runwaygirlnetwork.com/2013/12/30/boeing-sky-interior-offered-for-737ng-retrofits/. 
  44. ↑ Andrew Doyle, Max Kingsley-Jones, Paul Lewis, Guy Norris (12 May 1999). "Putting the family to work". Flight International. https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/putting-the-family-to-work-51106/. 
  45. ↑ "Jet Prices". Boeing. http://www.boeing.com:80/commercial/prices/index.html. 
  46. ↑ "Next-Generation 737 Production Winglets". Boeing. http://www.boeing.com/commercial/737family/winglets/index.html. 
  47. ↑ David M. North (1997-08-25). "Boeing 737-700 pilot report". Aviation Week & Space Technology. https://archive.aviationweek.com/issue/19970825#!&pid=44. Retrieved November 12, 2019. "New 737 Shows Off Operating Improvements". 
  48. ↑ "Southwest Appetite for B737-700 Wanes Potentially Affecting Values". Aircraft Value News. June 11, 2018. http://www.aircraftvaluenews.com/southwest-appetite-for-b737-700-wanes-potentially-affecting-values/. 
  49. ↑ "U.S. Naval Reserve Gets First Look at Newest Class of Aircraft" . DefenseLink (U.S. Department of Defense). Retrieved January 21, 2008.
  50. ↑ "737-700ER Technical Characteristics". Boeing. http://www.boeing.com:80/commercial/737family/737-700ER/tech.html. 
  51. ↑ "Boeing Delivers First 737-700ER to Launch Customer ANA" (Press release). Boeing. 2007-02-16. Archived from the original on June 12, 2018. Retrieved June 11, 2018.
  52. ↑ "First Boeing Next-Generation 737-800 Goes To Hapag-Lloyd" (Press release). Boeing. 1998-04-23. Archived from the original on September 15, 2020. Retrieved January 23, 2020.
  53. ↑ James. "Aerospace Notebook: MD-80 era winding down as fuel costs rise". Seattle Post-Intelligencer, June 24, 2008. Retrieved August 30, 2009.
  54. ↑ Wilhelm, Steve. "Mindful of rivals, Boeing keeps tinkering with its 737" . Orlando Business Journal, August 11, 2008 Retrieved August 30, 2009.
  55. ↑ "Commercial airlines industry mixed on imminent emission regulations" . CNN, June 4, 2015.
  56. ↑ "End of Line B737-800 Values Show Fatigue". Aircraft Value News. September 17, 2018. http://www.aircraftvaluenews.com/end-of-line-b737-800-values-show-fatigue/. 
  57. ↑ "Two Early Build B737-900ERs Sold Between Lessors". Aircraft Value News. October 29, 2018. http://www.aircraftvaluenews.com/two-early-build-b737-900ers-sold-between-lessors/. 
  58. ↑ Derber, Alex (2018-06-14). "Inside MRO: Boeing 737-800 Not Expected To Peak Until 2021". Aviation Week & Space Technology. https://www.mro-network.com/airframe/boeing-737-800-not-expected-peak-until-2021. 
  59. ↑ "Latest Register and Monthly Changes". Irish Aviation Authority. 2 January 2018. https://www.iaa.ie/commercial-aviation/aircraft-registration-2/latest-register-and-monthly-changes-1. 
  60. ↑ "Boeing launches 737-800BCF programme". Flightglobal. 24 February 2016. https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing-launches-737-800bcf-programme-422323/. 
  61. ↑ "Boeing delivers first 737-800BCF to West Atlantic". Flightglobal. 2018-04-20. https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing-delivers-first-737-800bcf-to-west-atlantic-447850/. 
  62. ↑ 62.0 62.1 "GECAS, Boeing Announce Agreement for 35x 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters" (Press release). GE. 2018-07-17. Archived from the original on July 25, 2018. Retrieved July 25, 2018.
  63. ↑ "737-800BCF Boeing Converted Freighter". Boeing. 2016. https://www.boeing.com/resources/boeingdotcom/commercial/services/assets/brochure/737_800BCF.pdf. 
  64. ↑ "AEI's 12 pallet 737-800 Freighter Conversion". Aeronautical Engineers, Inc.. https://www.aeronautical-engineers.com/products/12-pallet-737-800/. 
  65. ↑ "AEI receives FAA certification for B737-800SF" (in en-GB). Airline Economics. February 2019. https://www.aviationnews-online.com/cargo/aei-receives-faa-certification-for-b737-800sf/. 
  66. ↑ "GECAS Delivers AEI's First-Ever 737-800 Converted Freighter to Ethiopian" (Press release). GE. March 4, 2019.
  67. ↑ "AEI Receives CAAC B737-800SF Certification" (Press release). Aeronautical Engineers, Inc. January 13, 2020. Archived from the original on July 30, 2020. Retrieved March 25, 2021.
  68. ↑ Hemmerdinger, Jon (2 March 2021). "Macquarie AirFinance orders four AEI 737-800 converted freighters" (in en). https://www.flightglobal.com/air-transport/macquarie-airfinance-orders-four-aei-737-800-converted-freighters/142700.article. 
  69. ↑ "FAA Type Certificate Data Sheet". http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgMakeModel.nsf/0/9dd07e4b4293722e86257dfc006774ca/$FILE/A16WE_Rev_54.pdf. 
  70. ↑ 70.0 70.1 Norris, Guy (6 February 2006). "THE 737 STORY: The Long Stretch" (in en). https://www.flightglobal.com/the-737-story-the-long-stretch/65315.article. 
  71. ↑ "Air Force identifies Boeing E-7 as solution to replace the E-3 capability" (in en-US). April 26, 2022. https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3011056/air-force-identifies-boeing-e-7-as-solution-to-replace-the-e-3-capability/. 
  72. ↑ "P-8A Multi-mission Maritime Aircraft (MMA) fact file" . US Navy, February 17, 2009.
  73. ↑ "FARNBOROUGH 2008: Boeing 737 embarks on its Poseidon adventure" . Flight International, July 15, 2008.
  74. ↑ Endres 2001.
  75. ↑ 75.0 75.1 "The Boeing 737-700/800 BBJ/BBJ2" . airliners.net, February 3, 2008. Retrieved August 30, 2009.
  76. ↑ "Boeing: Boeing Business Jets". http://www.boeing.com/commercial/bbj/#/aircraft/family/characteristics/bbj-3/. 
  77. ↑ "Boeing BBJ 3". 2016-11-07. https://www.bjtonline.com/aircraft/boeing-bbj-3. 
  78. ↑ "World Airline Census 2018" (in en-GB). https://www.flightglobal.com/asset/24536. 
  79. ↑ "Boeing 737-600". https://aviation-safety.net/database/types/Boeing-737-600/statistics. , "737-700". https://aviation-safety.net/database/types/Boeing-737-700/statistics. , "737-800". https://aviation-safety.net/database/types/Boeing-737-800/statistics. , "737-900 Statistics". Aviation Safety Network. 17 January 2020. https://aviation-safety.net/database/types/Boeing-737-900/statistics. 
  80. ↑ "Statistical Summary of Commercial Jet Airplane Accidents – Accident Rates by Airplane Type". Boeing. October 2018. p. 19. http://www.boeing.com/news/techissues/pdf/statsum.pdf. 
  81. ↑ Oliphant, Roland; Mendick, Robert; Nicholls, Dominic (8 January 2020). "Iran plane crash: All 176 passengers killed as Ukraine Boeing 737 crashes near Tehran". The Telegraph. https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2020/01/08/iran-plane-crash-170-passengers-feared-dead-ukraine-boeing-737/. 
  82. ↑ "Boeing 737 Airplane Characteristics for Airport Planning". Boeing Commercial Airplanes. September 2013. http://www.boeing.com/assets/pdf/commercial/airports/acaps/737.pdf. 
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  86. ↑ "Boeing revises "obsolete" performance assumptions". Flight Global. 3 August 2015. https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing-revises-obsolete-performance-assumptions-415293/. 
  87. ↑ 87.0 87.1 "CFM56-7B". Safran/Snecma. March 2011. http://www.safran-aircraft-engines.com/file/download/fiche_cfm56-7b_ang.pdf. 
  88. ↑ "DOC 8643 – Aircraft Type Designators". ICAO. http://www.icao.int/publications/DOC8643/Pages/default.aspx. 

Bibliography

  • Endres, Günter (2001). The Illustrated Directory of Modern Commercial Aircraft. St. Paul, Minnesota: MBI Publishing Company. ISBN 0760311250. 
  • Norris, Guy; Wagner, Mark (1999). Modern Boeing Jetliners. Minneapolis, Minnesota: Zenith Imprint. ISBN 9780760307175. 
  • Shaw, Robbie (1999). Boeing 737-300 to 800. St. Paul, Minnesota: MBI Publishing Company. ISBN 0760306990. 

External links



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