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Boeing 737-300 vs. ATR 72-600

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737-300

vs.

72-600

Price (USD)
$45 Million$26 Million
First Flight
19841988
Body Type
Narrow-bodyNarrow-body
Length
33 m109 ft
27 m89 ft
Wingspan
28 m94 ft
27 m88 ft
Wing Area
105 m²1,134 ft²
61 m²656 ft²
Fuselage Width
3 m12 ft
2 m8 ft
Height
11 m36 ft
7 m25 ft
Max Takeoff Weight
63,300 kg139,553 lbs
23,000 kg50,706 lbs
Number of Engines
22
Engine Options
CFMI CFM56Pratt & Whitney Canada PW100
Max Thrust Per Engine
98 kN22,000 lbf
1,846 kW2,475 shp
Max Total Thrust
196 kN44,000 lbf
3,692 kW4,750 shp
Fuel Capacity
20,100 l5,310 gal
6,400 l1,691 gal
Range
4,400 km2,376 nm
1,528 km825 nm
Cruise Speed
796 km/h495 mph
510 km/h317 mph
Typical Seating
128 pax62 pax
Max Seating
149 pax74 pax

What Are the Differences Between the Boeing 737-300 and ATR 72-600

Boeing 737-300 vs ATR 72-600 Size Comparison

  • At 33.40 meters, the Boeing 737-300 is 6.20 meters longer than the ATR 72-600.
  • With a wingspan of 28.80 meters, the Boeing 737-300 is 1.70 meters wider from wingtip to wingtip.
  • The Boeing 737-300 and ATR 72-600 have heights of 11.10 meters and 7.70 meters respectively - making the Boeing 737-300 3.40 meters taller.

Boeing 737-300 vs ATR 72-600 Range

  • Boeing 737-300’s range of 4,400 kilometers is greater than ATR 72-600’s range of 1,528 kilometers. Therefore, the Boeing 737-300 can fly nonstop approximately 2,872 kilometers further.
  • The Boeing 737-300 can hold 5,310 gallons of fuel, which is 3,619 gallons more than the ATR 72-600’s tank capacity of 1,691 gallons.

Boeing 737-300 vs ATR 72-600 Seating

  • In a typical seating configuration, the Boeing 737-300 can accommodate 128 passengers, which is about 66 passengers more than ATR 72-600’s seating capacity.
  • The Boeing 737-300’s max seating capacity is 149 passengers, compared to 74 passengers of the ATR 72-600.

About the Boeing 737-300

The Boeing 737-300, launched in the early 1980s, is a seminal model in the 737 family, known for ushering in the era of modern narrow-body jetliners. As the first of the 737 Classic series, it was developed to meet the growing demand for more efficient and higher-capacity short to medium-haul aircraft. Compared to the Original 737 models, the -300 featured new wings, a redesigned tailfin, and improvements inside the cabin. Fast forward a bit, the 737-300 was eventually replaced by the 737-700 of the Next Generation series.

The 737-300 stretches 109.6 feet (33.4 meters) from nose to tail, with a wingspan of 94.5 feet (28.8 meters). This aircraft was Boeing's answer to the need for a larger capacity in the single-aisle market, accommodating 128 passengers in a typical two-class layout. Its increased length over its predecessor, the 737-200, allowed for additional seating, making it a more economical choice for airlines.

Equipped with two CFM International CFM56-3B1 engines, the 737-300 produces a total thrust of 44,000 lbf (196.0 kN). This enhancement in power, combined with a fuel capacity of 5,310 US gallons (20,100 liters), extended the aircraft's range to 2,376 nautical miles (4,400 kilometers). The 737-300's cruise speed of 495 mph (796 km/h) made it a swift and efficient option for airlines, reducing flight times on popular domestic and regional routes.

The 737-300 marked a shift in the commercial aviation landscape, competing with models like the McDonnell Douglas MD-80. Its launch was pivotal for Boeing, demonstrating the company's ability to innovate and adapt to market shifts. The 737-300's popularity was driven by its improved efficiency, greater capacity, and enhanced performance, meeting the needs of airlines expanding their short-haul operations.

Major carriers such as Southwest Airlines and United Airlines incorporated the Boeing 737-300 into their fleets, capitalizing on its operational advantages. The American carriers purchased a majority of the -300, with 299 units between the two airlines. The aircraft's role in these fleets was significant, as it enabled airlines to offer more frequent services and open new routes, particularly in the domestic and regional markets.

About the ATR 72-600

The ATR 72-600, part of the renowned ATR aircraft family, is a twin-engine, high-wing turboprop airliner designed primarily for regional and short-haul flights. First flown in 1988, this model has become a popular choice for airlines operating in small markets.

ATR, the manufacturer of the ATR 72, has produced over 1800 units through 2023. The -600 variant is the latest model to be designed, making its first flight in 2007. Compared to the smaller ATR 42, the ATR 72 has a longer fuselage and wider wingspan. At 27.2 meters (89.1 feet) from nose to tail and a width of 27.1 meters (88.7 feet), the ATR 72-600 is characterized by its compact and efficient design, suitable for operations at smaller airports. It has a max takeoff weight of 23,000 kg (50,706 lbs), and a max payload of 7,400 kg (16,313 lbs). The ATR 72-600 is powered by two engines, delivering a total output of 3692 kW (4,950 shp), providing reliable performance for its operational requirements. It has a fuel capacity of 6,400 liters (1,691 US gallons), which contributes to its range of 1,528 kilometers (825 nautical miles). With a cruise speed of 510 km/h (317 mph), the ATR 72-600 offers an efficient travel option for regional airlines, connecting smaller communities and cities.

In the regional aviation sector, the ATR 72-600 competes with aircraft like the Bombardier Q400 and Embraer E-Jets. Its advantage lies in its operational cost-effectiveness, making it an appealing choice for airlines serving regional routes with moderate passenger volumes. Airlines such as Air New Zealand, IndiGo, SAS, and TAROM operate the ATR 72-600, utilizing its capabilities to serve regional networks. These carriers value the aircraft for its ability to provide efficient, reliable service on shorter routes, which are crucial for maintaining regional connectivity. The introduction of the ATR 72-600 to the market was driven by the need for an economical, versatile aircraft that could effectively serve the regional aviation segment. Its operational role has been defined by its capacity to offer cost-efficient solutions for airlines operating on less dense routes.

Today, the ATR 72-600 remains a significant player in the regional aircraft market, demonstrating its continued relevance in connecting smaller cities and communities.

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Values shown may not be 100% accurate, as some metrics are averages or only represent certain production years and configurations. Engine specs are based on the best options available.

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