The Boeing 737, a widely produced aircraft with over 11,500 units delivered, continues to play a significant role in modern commercial aviation. The aircraft's speed has evolved through its various models, reflecting advancements in technology and changing industry demands.
The original Boeing 737 series, which includes the 737-100 and 737-200 models, as well as the Classic series comprising the 737-300, 737-400, and 737-500 models, have a cruising speed of Mach 0.745. This translates to approximately 430 knots or 796 km/h. Despite these listed speeds, the maximum mach number (MMO) for these older variants is Mach 0.82.
Newer models like the Boeing 737NG series (-600, -700, -800) and the latest generation MAX family exhibit faster cruising speeds at Mach 0.785 (453 knots or 838 km/h). These improvements highlight technological progress over time. "The time savings that such jets could make on longer routes compared to their older counterparts are not inconsiderable by any means," states an aviation expert.