Boeing 717-200 vs. Airbus A330-200

The Boeing 717-200 is a narrow-body, twin-engine jetliner designed for regional and short to medium-haul routes. Characterized by its efficiency and operational flexibility, it caters to airlines requiring a reliable and cost-effective solution for less dense routes. Developed as a part of the Boeing family, the 717-200 first entered service in 1998, marking Boeing's entry into the regional jet market. It was produced until 2006, with a focus on meeting the specific demands of regional air travel. The aircraft's production history reflects Boeing's strategy to offer a range of jetliners tailored to various market segments.

With dimensions of 37.8 meters (124.0 feet) in length and a wingspan of 28.5 meters (93.3 feet), the 717-200 is ideally sized for operations at smaller airports. It typically accommodates 110 passengers, providing a comfortable and efficient travel experience on regional journeys. Powered by two rear-mounted Rolls-Royce BR715 engines, the Boeing 717-200 delivers a total thrust of 190.0 kN (42,800 lbf). Its fuel capacity of 16,670 liters (4,404 US gallons) supports a range of 3,815 kilometers (2,060 nautical miles), making it suitable for various regional routes. The aircraft has a cruise speed of 822 km/h (511 mph).

In the competitive regional jet market, the Boeing 717-200 stands as a contender against models like the Bombardier CRJ Series and Embraer E-Jets. Its introduction provided airlines with a practical and economical option for regional networks, balancing the needs for capacity, range, and cost-efficiency. Airlines such as Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, and QantasLink have utilized the 717-200 for its operational efficiency and adaptability. Not many 717s are still in service today. Delta is one of the last airlines to be phasing out its own fleet.

The Boeing 717-200's legacy in commercial aviation is defined by its role in regional air travel. While its production has concluded, the 717-200 continues to be recognized for its contribution to the regional aviation segment.

Introduced in 1998, the Airbus A330-200 is a wide-body, twin-engine jetliner for medium to long-haul flights. This model, with its shorter fuselage than the A330-300, offers enhanced range capabilities, making it a versatile option for international airlines.

Spanning 193 feet (58.8 meters) in length with a wingspan of 197.8 feet (60.3 meters), the A330-200 accommodates up to 247 passengers in a standard three-class configuration. Its design prioritizes cabin flexibility, allowing airlines to customize seating layouts to suit various route requirements. The aircraft's interior features modern amenities, contributing to passenger comfort and satisfaction. Powered by a choice of engines from Rolls-Royce, General Electric, or Pratt & Whitney, the A330-200 achieves a balance of power and efficiency. It boasts a maximum takeoff weight of about 533,500 lbs and can cover distances up to 7,250 nautical miles. This extended range is instrumental in connecting distant city pairs and expanding airlines' route networks. The A330-200 integrates Airbus's advanced avionics and fly-by-wire technology, features that enhance flight performance and safety. The two-person cockpit is equipped with an electronic flight instrument system and sophisticated navigation tools, making flight operations more efficient and intuitive.

Airlines like Delta Air Lines, Turkish Airlines, and Etihad Airways have utilized the A330-200 extensively. Its operational flexibility makes it suitable for a variety of routes, from dense, high-demand corridors to specialized long-haul flights. The aircraft's ability to efficiently operate on transcontinental routes has been particularly beneficial for airlines expanding their global presence. The A330-200's market introduction responded to the need for a wide-body aircraft with optimized range and capacity. The -200 competes with the Boeing 767-400ER, as well as with the Boeing 787-8. While production for A330 CEOs ceased in 2021, the model is now being built in the newer-800 and -900 variants.