The Boeing 737-800 is a stretched variant of the 737 Next Generation (NG) family, designed to replace the older 737-400 and compete with the Airbus A320. First entering service in 1998 with Hapag-Lloyd, the 737-800 quickly became one of the most popular and widely produced 737 variants due to its balance of capacity, range, and fuel efficiency.

With room for up to 189 passengers, the 737-800 became the workhorse of fleets around the world. It offers improved performance, advanced avionics, and reduced operating costs compared to previous generations.

Key Specifications (737-800)

• Crew: 2 (Pilots).
• Capacity: Typically 162–189 passengers.
• Length: 39.47 m (129 ft 6 in).
• Wingspan: 35.79 m (117 ft 5 in) with winglets.
• Height: 12.55 m (41 ft 2 in).
• Max Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 79,000 kg (174,200 lb).
• Engines: 2 × CFM International CFM56-7B turbofans.
• Cruise Speed: Mach 0.785 (~840 km/h or 521 mph).
• Range: ~5,665 km (3,520 mi).
• Ceiling: 41,000 ft (12,500 m).

Notable Features

• Most widely used variant of the 737 NG family.
• Replaced the 737-400 and became a direct competitor to the Airbus A320.
• Available with blended winglets for improved fuel efficiency.
• Full glass cockpit and advanced navigation/communication systems.
• Commonly used for short to medium-haul routes, including transcontinental flights.

Operators & Usage

• Flown extensively by Ryanair, American Airlines, Delta, United, Qantas, and many others.
• Also used for charter services and by governments and militaries (e.g., P-8 Poseidon derivative).
• Over 5,000 units built, making it one of the most produced commercial jets in history.
• Many are still in active service, though being gradually replaced by the 737 MAX 8.