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Boeing 737-500 vs. Boeing 777-300ER

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737-500

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777-300ER

Price (USD)
$50 Million$340 Million
First Flight
19892003
Body Type
Narrow-bodyWide-body
Length
31 m101 ft
73 m242 ft
Wingspan
28 m94 ft
64 m212 ft
Wing Area
105 m²1,134 ft²
436 m²4,701 ft²
Fuselage Width
3 m12 ft
6 m20 ft
Height
11 m36 ft
18 m60 ft
Max Takeoff Weight
62,800 kg138,450 lbs
351,530 kg774,991 lbs
Number of Engines
22
Engine Options
CFMI CFM56General Electric GE90
Max Thrust Per Engine
89 kN20,000 lbf
513 kN115,300 lbf
Max Total Thrust
178 kN40,000 lbf
1,026 kN230,600 lbf
Fuel Capacity
20,100 l5,310 gal
181,290 l47,892 gal
Range
4,400 km2,376 nm
13,650 km7,370 nm
Cruise Speed
796 km/h495 mph
892 km/h554 mph
Typical Seating
110 pax396 pax
Max Seating
145 pax440 pax

What Are the Differences Between the Boeing 737-500 and Boeing 777-300ER

Boeing 737-500 vs Boeing 777-300ER Size Comparison

  • At 73.90 meters, the Boeing 777-300ER is 42.90 meters longer than the Boeing 737-500.
  • With a wingspan of 64.80 meters, the Boeing 777-300ER is 36 meters wider from wingtip to wingtip.
  • The Boeing 737-500 and Boeing 777-300ER have heights of 11.10 meters and 18.50 meters respectively - making the Boeing 777-300ER 7.40 meters taller.

Boeing 737-500 vs Boeing 777-300ER Range

  • Boeing 777-300ER’s range of 13,650 kilometers is greater than Boeing 737-500’s range of 4,400 kilometers. Therefore, the Boeing 777-300ER can fly nonstop approximately 9,250 kilometers further.
  • The Boeing 777-300ER can hold 47,892 gallons of fuel, which is 42,582 gallons more than the Boeing 737-500’s tank capacity of 5,310 gallons.

Boeing 737-500 vs Boeing 777-300ER Seating

  • In a typical seating configuration, the Boeing 777-300ER can accommodate 396 passengers, which is about 286 passengers more than Boeing 737-500’s seating capacity.
  • The Boeing 777-300ER’s max seating capacity is 440 passengers, compared to 145 passengers of the Boeing 737-500.

About the Boeing 737-500

The Boeing 737-500, introduced in 1987 as part of the 737 Classic series, is a narrow-body, twin-engine airliner designed for short to medium-haul routes. Recognized for its compact size and efficiency, the 737-500 catered to airlines needing a smaller capacity jet with the performance qualities of the larger 737 models.

At 101.7 feet (31.0 meters) in length and with a wingspan of 94.5 feet (28.8 meters), the 737-500 was adept at serving routes that required flexibility for airport size and range. This aircraft was particularly appealing to airlines for its ability to operate efficiently on shorter and less dense routes, providing a practical solution for smaller markets. While the -400 expanded on the -300, the -500 was actually constructed to considerably smaller than the -300. Comparatively, the 737-500 is closest in size and capacity to the 737-200. Powered by two CFM International CFM56-3C1 engines, the Boeing 737-500 has a total thrust capability of 40,000 lbf (178.0 kN). With a fuel capacity of 5,310 US gallons (20,100 liters), it boasts a range of 2,376 nautical miles (4,400 kilometers). The 737-500's cruise speed of 495 mph (796 km/h) contributed to its reputation as a reliable and efficient aircraft for regional travel.

In the commercial aviation landscape of its time, the Boeing 737-500 was a competitor to aircraft like the McDonnell Douglas MD-80 series. Its introduction provided airlines with a versatile option in the 737 family, bridging the gap between the larger 737 models and the need for a more economical, smaller jet. Southwest Airlines was the first customer of the -500, making their first flight in 1989. Lufthansa, United Airlines, and Continental also operated the Boeing 737-500. The aircraft played a significant role in these fleets, enabling the expansion of domestic and regional networks.

The Boeing 737-500 has faced accelerated retirement due to its smaller size. A majority of models were out of service after just 21 years in service. Most freight companies didn't even have interest in turning the -500 into a cargo jet. The 737-500 was replaced by the 737-600 of the Next Generation series.

About the Boeing 777-300ER

Introduced in 2003, the Boeing 777-300ER is a large twin-aisle aircraft designed for high capacity, long haul flights. As an extended-range variant of the 777-300, this wide-body twinjet was designed to meet the complex requirements of airlines for more passengers and range, particularly for international routes.

The 777-300ER, with its impressive length of 73.9 meters (242.5 feet) and a wingspan of 64.8 meters (212.6 feet), is a marvel of modern aviation design. The aircraft's wing area of 436.8 square meters (4701.7 square feet) plays a crucial role in its aerodynamic efficiency, enabling it to operate effectively over long distances. Equipped with two high-thrust GE90-115B turbofan engines, the 777-300ER boasts a total maximum thrust of 1026.0 kN (230,600 lbf), facilitating a significant range of up to 13,650 kilometers (7,370 nautical miles). Inside, the Boeing 777-300ER can typically seat 396 passengers in a standard three-class layout.

The 777-300ER's entry into service was a strategic move by Boeing to capture a significant share of the long-haul market. It competes closely with other aircraft like the Airbus A330-900, A340-600, and A350-1000, offering airlines a combination of efficiency, capacity, and range. The 777-300ER also succeeded many 747-400s, being about 20% more efficient than the Queen of the Skies in terms of fuel burn. Notable operators of the 777-300ER include Emirates, Cathay Pacific, Turkish Airlines, Thai Airways, and Air France. All of these carriers have utilized the aircraft's capabilities to serve a diverse range of long-haul routes effectively.

Boeing's focus in developing the 777-300ER was not only on enhancing passenger comfort and range but also on improving operational efficiency. The aircraft's use of advanced materials, coupled with its innovative design, results in lower operating costs and a reduced environmental impact, aligning with the growing emphasis on sustainable aviation.

In conclusion, the Boeing 777-300ER represents a significant achievement in aircraft design and engineering. Its combination of range, passenger capacity, and efficiency has set new standards in long-haul commercial air travel, making it a key player in the wide-body aircraft market. The -300ER variant stands as the most popular 777. By 2020, the best-seller had a total of 837 orders and 832 deliveries. Looking ahead, many 777 operators will opt for the new 777X when their fleets head towards retirement.

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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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