All About the Boeing 737-800: Specifications and More

The Boeing 737-800 is a single-aisle, narrow-body commercial jet airliner developed and produced by Boeing Commercial Airplanes. It is the third generation of the Boeing 737 and the best-selling jet airliner in history, with over 15,000 aircraft delivered since its introduction in 1994.

The 737-800 is powered by two CFM International CFM56-7B or Leap-1B high-bypass turbofan engines, and has a range of up to 3,500 nautical miles (6,482 kilometers). It can accommodate up to 189 passengers in a single-class configuration, or up to 162 passengers in a two-class configuration. The 737-800 is used by a wide variety of airlines around the world, and is known for its efficiency, reliability, and low operating costs.

Some of the key specifications of the Boeing 737-800 include:

Length: 129 feet 6 inches (39.47 meters)
Wingspan: 117 feet 6 inches (35.81 meters)
Height: 41 feet 3 inches (12.57 meters)
Maximum takeoff weight: 174,200 pounds (79,010 kilograms)
Cruise speed: Mach 0.78 to 0.82 (528 to 553 mph, 850 to 890 km/h)
Range: 3,500 nautical miles (6,482 kilometers)
Capacity: 162 to 189 passengers

BOEING 737-800 Specs

Length: 129 feet 6 inches (39.47 meters)
Wingspan: 117 feet 6 inches (35.81 meters)
Height: 41 feet 3 inches (12.57 meters)
Maximum takeoff weight: 174,200 pounds (79,010 kilograms)
Cruise speed: Mach 0.78 to 0.82 (528 to 553 mph, 850 to 890 km/h)
Range: 3,500 nautical miles (6,482 kilometers)
Capacity: 162 to 189 passengers
Engines: Two CFM International CFM56-7B or Leap-1B high-bypass turbofan engines

These specifications make the Boeing 737-800 an ideal aircraft for short- to medium-haul flights. It is efficient to operate, with low fuel consumption and maintenance costs. The 737-800 is also a versatile aircraft, with a variety of seating configurations to accommodate the needs of different airlines. As a result, the 737-800 is one of the most popular aircraft in the world, and is used by a wide variety of airlines, including Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, and United Airlines.

Length

The length of the Boeing 737-800 is a key specification that affects its performance and capabilities. A longer fuselage allows for more seating capacity, cargo space, and fuel capacity. However, it also increases the aircraft’s weight and drag, which can reduce its efficiency and range.

Passenger Capacity: The length of the 737-800 allows it to accommodate up to 189 passengers in a single-class configuration, or up to 162 passengers in a two-class configuration.
Cargo Capacity: The 737-800 has a cargo capacity of up to 5,000 cubic feet (142 cubic meters). This allows it to carry a significant amount of cargo, in addition to passengers and their luggage.
Fuel Capacity: The 737-800 has a fuel capacity of up to 6,875 US gallons (26,000 liters). This gives it a range of up to 3,500 nautical miles (6,482 kilometers), which is sufficient for most short- to medium-haul flights.
Efficiency and Range: While the length of the 737-800 allows for more seating and cargo capacity, it also increases the aircraft’s weight and drag. This can reduce its efficiency and range, compared to shorter aircraft.

Overall, the length of the Boeing 737-800 is a key specification that affects its performance and capabilities. It allows for more seating and cargo capacity, but it also increases the aircraft’s weight and drag. This must be carefully considered when determining the aircraft’s suitability for a particular route or operation.

Wingspan

The wingspan of the Boeing 737-800 is a key specification that affects its performance and capabilities. The wingspan is the distance from the tip of one wing to the tip of the other wing. A larger wingspan provides more lift, which allows the aircraft to fly at lower speeds and with greater stability. It also reduces the amount of drag, which improves the aircraft’s fuel efficiency.

Lift: The wingspan of the 737-800 is 117 feet 6 inches (35.81 meters), which provides a significant amount of lift. This allows the aircraft to take off and land at relatively low speeds, and to maintain a stable flight at low altitudes.
Drag: The wingspan of the 737-800 also reduces drag. Drag is the resistance that an aircraft experiences as it moves through the air. A larger wingspan reduces the amount of drag, which improves the aircraft’s fuel efficiency.
Stability: The wingspan of the 737-800 also contributes to its stability. A larger wingspan provides more stability, which makes the aircraft easier to control and maneuver.

Overall, the wingspan of the Boeing 737-800 is a key specification that affects its performance and capabilities. A larger wingspan provides more lift, reduces drag, and improves stability. This makes the 737-800 an efficient and stable aircraft, which is well-suited for short- to medium-haul flights.

Height

The height of the Boeing 737-800 is a key specification that affects its performance and capabilities. The height of an aircraft is measured from the ground to the highest point of the aircraft, typically the top of the vertical stabilizer. A taller aircraft has a higher center of gravity, which can affect its stability and handling. It also has a larger frontal area, which can increase drag and reduce fuel efficiency.

Passenger Capacity: The height of the 737-800 allows it to accommodate a single aisle with up to six seats abreast. This provides a comfortable seating experience for passengers, with ample headroom and legroom.
Cargo Capacity: The height of the 737-800 also affects its cargo capacity. The aircraft has a lower cargo hold that is accessible from the rear of the aircraft. The height of the cargo hold allows for the loading of large and bulky items, such as luggage, freight, and mail.
Ground Clearance: The height of the 737-800 also affects its ground clearance. The aircraft has a ground clearance of 15 feet 8 inches (4.78 meters), which is sufficient for most airports and runways. However, it may be necessary to use ground equipment to load and unload passengers and cargo at some airports with lower ground clearances.
Stability and Handling: The height of the 737-800 affects its stability and handling characteristics. A taller aircraft has a higher center of gravity, which can make it less stable and more difficult to maneuver. However, the 737-800 has a number of design features that help to mitigate these effects, such as a long fuselage and a large vertical stabilizer.

Overall, the height of the Boeing 737-800 is a key specification that affects its performance and capabilities. The aircraft’s height allows for a comfortable seating experience for passengers, a large cargo capacity, and sufficient ground clearance. It also affects the aircraft’s stability and handling characteristics, but these effects are mitigated by a number of design features.

Maximum takeoff weight

The maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of an aircraft is the heaviest weight at which it is permitted to take off. The MTOW is determined by a number of factors, including the aircraft’s structural strength, engine power, and landing gear design. The MTOW of the Boeing 737-800 is 174,200 pounds (79,010 kilograms). This means that the aircraft can weigh up to 174,200 pounds at takeoff, including the weight of the aircraft itself, its passengers, cargo, and fuel.

The MTOW is an important specification for the Boeing 737-800 because it determines the aircraft’s payload capacity. The payload capacity is the amount of weight that the aircraft can carry in addition to its own weight. The payload capacity of the 737-800 is 42,800 pounds (19,410 kilograms). This means that the aircraft can carry up to 42,800 pounds of passengers, cargo, and fuel.

The MTOW is also important for safety reasons. The aircraft must be able to take off and climb safely at its MTOW. The 737-800 is powered by two CFM International CFM56-7B or Leap-1B high-bypass turbofan engines, which provide the aircraft with the power it needs to take off and climb safely at its MTOW.

The MTOW of the Boeing 737-800 is a key specification that affects the aircraft’s performance and capabilities. The MTOW determines the aircraft’s payload capacity and its ability to take off and climb safely.

Cruise speed

The cruise speed of an aircraft is the speed at which it flies during the majority of its flight. The cruise speed of the Boeing 737-800 is Mach 0.78 to 0.82, which is equivalent to 528 to 553 mph (850 to 890 km/h). This speed is determined by a number of factors, including the aircraft’s design, engine power, and weight.

Fuel Efficiency: The cruise speed of the Boeing 737-800 is optimized for fuel efficiency. At this speed, the aircraft’s engines operate at their most efficient setting, which reduces fuel consumption. This is important for airlines, as fuel is one of their largest operating costs.
Passenger Comfort: The cruise speed of the Boeing 737-800 is also designed to provide a comfortable ride for passengers. At this speed, the aircraft experiences less turbulence and vibration, which can make for a more enjoyable flight.
Range: The cruise speed of the Boeing 737-800 is also determined by its range. The aircraft has a range of up to 3,500 nautical miles (6,482 kilometers), which is sufficient for most short- to medium-haul flights.
Safety: The cruise speed of the Boeing 737-800 is also important for safety. The aircraft is designed to be stable and controllable at this speed, even in turbulent conditions. This helps to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.

The cruise speed of the Boeing 737-800 is a key specification that affects the aircraft’s performance, efficiency, and safety. It is carefully chosen to optimize these factors and provide the best possible experience for passengers and airlines.

Range

The range of an aircraft is the distance it can travel on a single tank of fuel. The range of the Boeing 737-800 is 3,500 nautical miles (6,482 kilometers), which is sufficient for most short- to medium-haul flights.

Fuel Efficiency: The range of the Boeing 737-800 is largely determined by its fuel efficiency. The aircraft’s engines are designed to be very fuel-efficient, which allows it to travel long distances on a single tank of fuel.
Payload Capacity: The range of the Boeing 737-800 is also affected by its payload capacity. The aircraft can carry a maximum payload of 42,800 pounds (19,410 kilograms). This includes the weight of the passengers, cargo, and fuel.
Route Planning: The range of the Boeing 737-800 is also important for route planning. Airlines need to carefully consider the range of their aircraft when planning routes, to ensure that they can reach their destinations without needing to refuel.
Operational Costs: The range of the Boeing 737-800 can also affect its operational costs. Airlines need to purchase more fuel for aircraft with a shorter range, which can increase their operating costs.

The range of the Boeing 737-800 is a key specification that affects the aircraft’s performance and capabilities. It is important for airlines to consider the range of their aircraft when planning routes and determining operational costs.

Capacity

The capacity of the Boeing 737-800, ranging from 162 to 189 passengers, is a crucial component of its specifications. This capacity plays a significant role in determining the aircraft’s overall performance, operational efficiency, and suitability for various airline operations.

Firstly, the passenger capacity directly influences the aircraft’s revenue-generating potential. A higher capacity allows airlines to accommodate more passengers on each flight, leading to increased revenue. This is particularly important for short- to medium-haul flights, where passenger volume is typically high.

Moreover, the capacity of the Boeing 737-800 impacts its operational efficiency. A larger passenger capacity means that more passengers and their luggage need to be boarded and deplaned, which can affect the aircraft’s turnaround time. Airlines must carefully consider the balance between capacity and efficiency to optimize their operations.

Furthermore, the aircraft’s capacity also influences its suitability for different routes and markets. Airlines often select aircraft with specific capacities to match the demand on particular routes. For example, a route with high passenger traffic may require an aircraft with a larger capacity, such as the Boeing 737-800 with 189 seats. Conversely, a route with lower passenger demand may be better served by an aircraft with a smaller capacity.

Additionally, the capacity of the Boeing 737-800 affects its cabin configuration and passenger experience. Airlines can choose from various seating arrangements to accommodate different passenger classes and preferences. A higher capacity typically allows for more flexibility in cabin design, providing airlines with the opportunity to optimize passenger comfort and amenities.

In summary, the capacity of the Boeing 737-800, ranging from 162 to 189 passengers, is an integral aspect of its specifications. It influences the aircraft’s revenue potential, operational efficiency, suitability for different routes, cabin configuration, and passenger experience. Understanding this connection is essential for airlines in making informed decisions regarding aircraft selection and fleet management.

Engines

The engines of an aircraft are critical components that provide the thrust necessary for flight. In the case of the Boeing 737-800, it is equipped with two CFM International CFM56-7B or Leap-1B high-bypass turbofan engines. These engines play a vital role in determining the aircraft’s overall performance, efficiency, and reliability.

The CFM56-7B and Leap-1B engines are both highly efficient and reliable engines. They feature a high bypass ratio, which means that a larger volume of air passes through the engine’s core, resulting in improved fuel efficiency. This efficiency translates into lower operating costs for airlines, making the Boeing 737-800 a more economical aircraft to operate.

In addition to their efficiency, the CFM56-7B and Leap-1B engines are also known for their reliability. These engines have been extensively tested and proven to meet rigorous safety and performance standards. This reliability is crucial for airlines, as it ensures that their aircraft can operate safely and consistently, minimizing the risk of delays or cancellations.

The choice of engines for the Boeing 737-800 is a testament to the importance of engine performance and efficiency in aircraft design. By selecting these engines, Boeing has ensured that the 737-800 is a highly capable and cost-effective aircraft that meets the demands of airlines and passengers alike.

FAQs about Boeing 737-800 Specs

The Boeing 737-800 is a popular narrow-body aircraft known for its efficiency, reliability, and versatility. Here are some frequently asked questions about its specifications and capabilities:

Question 1: What is the maximum takeoff weight of the Boeing 737-800?

The maximum takeoff weight of the Boeing 737-800 is 174,200 pounds (79,010 kilograms). This determines the maximum weight the aircraft can have at takeoff, including passengers, cargo, and fuel.

Question 2: What is the range of the Boeing 737-800?

The range of the Boeing 737-800 is up to 3,500 nautical miles (6,482 kilometers). This range makes it suitable for short- to medium-haul flights, allowing airlines to connect cities within a region efficiently.

Question 3: How many passengers can the Boeing 737-800 accommodate?

The Boeing 737-800 can accommodate up to 189 passengers in a single-class configuration. However, airlines typically configure the aircraft with a mix of economy and business class seats, resulting in a lower passenger capacity.

Question 4: What type of engines does the Boeing 737-800 use?

The Boeing 737-800 is powered by two CFM International CFM56-7B or Leap-1B high-bypass turbofan engines. These engines are known for their efficiency and reliability, contributing to the aircraft’s overall performance.

Question 5: What is the cruise speed of the Boeing 737-800?

The Boeing 737-800 has a cruise speed of Mach 0.78 to 0.82 (528 to 553 mph, 850 to 890 km/h). This speed is optimized for fuel efficiency and passenger comfort during the majority of the flight.

Question 6: What is the height of the Boeing 737-800?

The Boeing 737-800 has a height of 41 feet 3 inches (12.57 meters). This height accommodates a single aisle with up to six seats abreast, providing a comfortable seating experience for passengers.

These FAQs provide a concise overview of the key specifications and capabilities of the Boeing 737-800. Its combination of efficiency, reliability, and passenger capacity makes it a popular choice for short- to medium-haul flights around the world.

Transition to the next article section:

For more detailed information on the Boeing 737-800, including its performance, design, and operational history, please refer to the relevant sections of this article.

Tips for Optimizing Boeing 737-800 Performance

The Boeing 737-800 is a highly capable aircraft, but there are always ways to improve its performance and efficiency. Here are five tips to help you get the most out of your 737-800:

Tip 1: Optimize takeoff and landing procedures.

By carefully planning your takeoff and landing procedures, you can reduce fuel consumption and improve overall efficiency. For example, using a reduced-power takeoff can save fuel, while a stabilized approach can reduce drag and improve landing performance.

Tip 2: Maintain a clean aircraft.

A clean aircraft is a more efficient aircraft. Dirt, bugs, and other contaminants can increase drag and reduce fuel efficiency. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help to keep your 737-800 in top condition.

Tip 3: Fly at the optimal altitude and speed.

The optimal altitude and speed for your 737-800 will vary depending on factors such as weight, weather, and wind conditions. By carefully calculating the optimal parameters, you can reduce fuel consumption and improve overall efficiency.

Tip 4: Use advanced navigation and flight management systems.

Modern navigation and flight management systems can help you to optimize your flight path and reduce fuel consumption. These systems can provide real-time data on weather, wind conditions, and other factors that can affect your flight.

Tip 5: Train your pilots on fuel-efficient flying techniques.

Your pilots play a key role in optimizing the fuel efficiency of your 737-800. By providing them with training on fuel-efficient flying techniques, you can help them to reduce fuel consumption and improve overall efficiency.

By following these tips, you can help to improve the performance and efficiency of your Boeing 737-800. These improvements can lead to significant cost savings and environmental benefits.

Summary of key takeaways:

Optimizing takeoff and landing procedures can reduce fuel consumption and improve efficiency.
Maintaining a clean aircraft can reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency.
Flying at the optimal altitude and speed can reduce fuel consumption and improve efficiency.
Using advanced navigation and flight management systems can help to optimize your flight path and reduce fuel consumption.
Training your pilots on fuel-efficient flying techniques can help them to reduce fuel consumption and improve overall efficiency.

Transition to the article’s conclusion:

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your Boeing 737-800 is operating at peak performance and efficiency. These improvements can lead to significant cost savings and environmental benefits, making your 737-800 a more valuable asset for your airline.

Conclusion

The Boeing 737-800 is a versatile and efficient aircraft that has become a mainstay of the global aviation industry. Its combination of passenger capacity, range, and fuel efficiency make it an ideal choice for short- to medium-haul flights.

In this article, we have explored the key specifications of the Boeing 737-800, including its dimensions, capacity, engines, and performance characteristics. We have also provided tips on how to optimize the performance and efficiency of this aircraft.

As the aviation industry continues to grow, the Boeing 737-800 will likely remain a popular choice for airlines around the world. Its combination of performance, efficiency, and reliability make it a valuable asset for any airline’s fleet.