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Boeing 737-900ER vs. Boeing 737 MAX 8

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737-900ER

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737 MAX 8

Price (USD)
$102 Million$110 Million
First Flight
20062016
Body Type
Narrow-bodyNarrow-body
Length
42 m138 ft
39 m129 ft
Wingspan
34 m112 ft
35 m117 ft
Wing Area
124 m²1,341 ft²
127 m²1,367 ft²
Fuselage Width
3 m12 ft
3 m12 ft
Height
12 m41 ft
12 m40 ft
Max Takeoff Weight
85,100 kg187,613 lbs
82,600 kg182,102 lbs
Number of Engines
22
Engine Options
CFMI CFM56CFMI LEAP-1B
Max Thrust Per Engine
126 kN28,400 lbf
130 kN29,300 lbf
Max Total Thrust
252 kN56,800 lbf
260 kN58,600 lbf
Fuel Capacity
29,700 l7,846 gal
25,800 l6,816 gal
Range
5,900 km3,186 nm
6,570 km3,548 nm
Cruise Speed
850 km/h528 mph
839 km/h521 mph
Typical Seating
180 pax178 pax
Max Seating
215 pax210 pax

What Are the Differences Between the Boeing 737-900ER and Boeing 737 MAX 8

Boeing 737-900ER vs Boeing 737 MAX 8 Size Comparison

  • At 42.10 meters, the Boeing 737-900ER is 2.60 meters longer than the Boeing 737 MAX 8.
  • With a wingspan of 35.90 meters, the Boeing 737 MAX 8 is 1.60 meters wider from wingtip to wingtip.
  • The Boeing 737-900ER and Boeing 737 MAX 8 have heights of 12.60 meters and 12.30 meters respectively - making the Boeing 737-900ER 0.30 meters taller.

Boeing 737-900ER vs Boeing 737 MAX 8 Range

  • Boeing 737 MAX 8’s range of 6,570 kilometers is greater than Boeing 737-900ER’s range of 5,900 kilometers. Therefore, the Boeing 737 MAX 8 can fly nonstop approximately 670 kilometers further.
  • The Boeing 737-900ER can hold 7,846 gallons of fuel, which is 1,030 gallons more than the Boeing 737 MAX 8’s tank capacity of 6,816 gallons.

Boeing 737-900ER vs Boeing 737 MAX 8 Seating

  • In a typical seating configuration, the Boeing 737-900ER can accommodate 180 passengers, which is about 2 passengers more than Boeing 737 MAX 8’s seating capacity.
  • The Boeing 737-900ER’s max seating capacity is 215 passengers, compared to 210 passengers of the Boeing 737 MAX 8.

About the Boeing 737-900ER

Introduced in 2006, the Boeing 737-900ER is a pivotal variant in the Next-Generation 737 series, offering airlines an ideal combination of extended range and increased passenger capacity for medium to long-haul routes. This aircraft, building upon the base model of the 737-900, incorporates significant advancements that enhance its operational flexibility and efficiency.

The 737-900ER's design extends to a length of 42.1 meters (138.1 feet), making it one of the longest aircraft in the 737 family. This extended fuselage allows for a higher passenger capacity, aligning with the growing demands for more economically efficient, high-density configurations in commercial aviation. Its wingspan of 34.3 meters (112.6 feet) and a wing area of 124.6 square meters (1341.0 square feet) contribute to the aircraft's aerodynamic performance. Equipped with powerful engines providing a total maximum thrust of 252.0 kN (56,800 lbf), the 737-900ER is well-suited for extended range operations, further enhancing its versatility for various route profiles. With a fuel capacity of 29,700 liters (7,846 US gallons), the aircraft achieves a range of approximately 5,900 kilometers (3,186 nautical miles), enabling it to operate longer routes previously beyond the reach of standard single-aisle aircraft.

The interior of the 737-900ER is configured to accommodate up to 180 passengers in a typical two-class setting, with the capability to seat up to 215 passengers in a denser, single-class arrangement. This flexibility makes the 737-900ER an adaptable solution for airlines to cater to different market demands. The cabin design focuses on enhancing passenger comfort, integrating modern amenities and spacious seating arrangements.

In the competitive landscape of commercial aviation, the 737-900ER stands out as a cost-effective option for airlines to service a wide spectrum of domestic and international routes. Operators such as Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines have integrated the 737-900ER into their fleets, utilizing its operational efficiency and capacity to bolster and diversify their route networks. The closest alternative airliner to the 737-900ER in the Airbus A321neo.

Overall, the Boeing 737-900ER marks a significant evolution in the 737 series, bringing together the benefits of extended range and increased capacity while upholding the operational efficiency and reliability that the Next-Generation 737s are known for. Its role in the fleets of global airlines underscores its status as a versatile and efficient choice for medium to long-haul air travel.

About the Boeing 737 MAX 8

The Boeing 737 MAX 8 is a narrow-body, twin-jet aircraft, and the upgraded version of the Boeing 737-800 from the NG family. As of 2023, over 1100 737 MAX jets are in service, with the majority of them being MAX 8s. The very first MAX 8 was delivered to Malindo Air in May of 2017. The state-of-the-art jet offers airlines a modern and versatile option for short to medium-haul routes.

A 20-month grounding interrupted deliveries after two fatal crashes traced to the programming of the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS). Now restored with multiple software fixes and training revisions, the 737 MAX series retains strong market demand for economical medium haul flight connectivity globally.

With a length of 129.7 feet (39.5 meters) and a wingspan of 117.8 feet (35.9 meters), the 737 MAX 8 is adept at accommodating the operational needs of both large international airports and smaller regional terminals. It is designed to seat up to 178 passengers, striking a balance between capacity and passenger comfort. The aircraft is powered by two CFM International LEAP-1B engines, each capable of producing 29,300 lbf of thrust (130.0 kN), totaling 58,600 lbf (260.0 kN). This power, combined with a fuel capacity of 6,816 US gallons (25,800 liters), enables the 737 MAX 8 to cover a range of 3,548 nautical miles (6,570 kilometers). The upgraded LEAP-1B turbofans contribute 20% fuel savings thanks to lighter composite designs. Re-engineered tail sections and wing tips further boost efficiency.

The 737 MAX 8 is rivaled by the Airbus A320neo. These two are arguably the most capable and efficient airliners for the modern medium haul market. The airlines with the most MAX 8s include Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines. Other carriers include Flydubai, Aeromexico, Air Canada, and TUI Group. With future rate increases slated as demand persists, the MAX 8 remains well-positioned as sub 180-seat workhorse growing the 737 legacy.

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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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