Boeing 737
The Boeing 737 is an American twin-engine narrow-body airliner family developed by Boeing Commercial Airplanes. First flown in 1967, it has evolved through four generations and become one of the most-produced commercial jet families in history.[1]
Development
Boeing designed the original 737-100 and longer 737-200 as short-haul companions to the 707 and 727. The prototype flew on 9 April 1967, and Lufthansa introduced the 737-100 in February 1968. Its low fuselage and engines mounted directly beneath the wings simplified baggage handling and ground access.[1]
The CFM56-powered Classic series arrived in the 1980s, followed by the digitally updated Next Generation family in the 1990s. The present 737 MAX generation uses CFM LEAP-1B engines, redesigned winglets and updated systems. Boeing offers the MAX 7, MAX 8, MAX 9 and MAX 10, with certification and delivery status varying by model.[1][2]
Design
Every 737 generation retains the basic twinjet, single-aisle layout, but fuselage lengths, wings, engines, cockpits and systems differ substantially. Passenger capacity spans roughly 85 seats in early aircraft to more than 200 in the largest later versions. The family's common lineage supports fleet and training continuity for operators.[1]
Service and safety
The 737 is used on short- and medium-haul routes by airlines on every continent and has also been developed as a business jet, freighter, maritime patrol aircraft and airborne early-warning platform. More than 12,600 examples had been built by mid-2026.[1]
Two fatal 737 MAX 8 accidents in 2018 and 2019 led regulators worldwide to ground the MAX while its flight-control software, training and certification were reviewed. The type returned to service after required changes. Later production-quality and oversight concerns brought further regulatory scrutiny to Boeing and the programme.[1]