Boeing 737-500 vs. Airbus A340-200

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.

The Airbus A340-200 is a long-range, wide-body aircraft, part of the A340 family known for its four-engine configuration. Introduced in 1992, the quadjet was designed to meet the demands of long-haul flights. The A340-200 has a longer wingspan (60.3 meters) than length (59.4 meters). The -200 version of the A340 has typical seating capacity for 250 passengers in a standard layout and a maximum capacity of 420 passengers.

Equipped with four engines that provide 136,000 pounds of thrust (600 kN), the A340-200 is recognized for its ability to cover significant distances, with a range of 6,695 nautical miles (12,400 kilometers). The aircraft's fuel capacity of 155,040 liters (40,957 US gallons) contributes to its long-range capabilities, making it suitable for routes such as transatlantic and transpacific flights. The aircraft's spacious cabin offers comfort for passengers on long-haul journeys, and its four-engine design provides additional reliability over vast oceanic and remote areas.

Competing with models like the Boeing 777-200ER, the A340-200 offered airlines a long-range option with a unique four-engine configuration. Its role in commercial aviation has been defined by its capacity to serve long-distance routes with a medium passenger load, meeting the needs of airlines for intercontinental travel.

The Airbus A340-200 has been operated by airlines such as Lufthansa and Air France, serving as a key component in their long-haul fleets. Only a small number of the -200 remain in service today. Additionally, it turned out that the -300 and -600 versions of the A340 were much more popular.