Quantcast

Boeing's evolution of engine choices across its bestselling 737 variants

Boeing's evolution of engine choices across its bestselling 737 variants
Policy
Webp 737b
Boeing 737 | Wikipedia

The Boeing 737, a popular commercial aircraft, has seen nearly 12,000 units built since its introduction in 1967. Over the years, the aircraft has evolved through different variants powered by four main types of engines.

The Boeing 737 family is divided into four sub-families: Original, Classic, Next Generation (NG), and MAX. Each sub-family represents advancements in technology and design. The Original series includes the 737-100 and 737-200 models, with the latter being more successful in sales. This was followed by the Classic series in the 1980s, which included models such as the 737-300, -400, and -500. These models improved on capacity and range.

The Next Generation series emerged amid increasing competition from Airbus and consisted of models like the 737-600 to -900. It was succeeded by the MAX family in the mid-2010s, which features certified variants like MAX 8 and MAX 9.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

Initially, Boeing used Pratt & Whitney JT8D engines for the Original series. These engines were known for their distinctive long and thin appearance. According to Pratt & Whitney, these engines have logged over 673 million flying hours.

For the Classic series, Boeing switched to CFM International's CFM56-3 engines. "According to CFM International," this engine is part of a family that powers various commercial and military aircraft. Its use resulted in increased efficiency and reduced noise pollution compared to its predecessor.

The NG series continued using CFM International engines but upgraded to the CFM56-7 model. This engine offered better fuel efficiency and power compared to earlier versions. CFM International notes that this combination became "the most popular engine-aircraft combination in commercial aviation history."

Finally, for the MAX series, Boeing opted for a new design with CFM International's LEAP-1B engine. Despite challenges such as a grounding period due to accidents involving MAX aircraft, Safran reports that LEAP-1B engines have already accumulated over 60 million flight hours across more than 160 operators globally.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

Lufthansa has been recognized as the world's most family-friendly airline by the World Airline Awards 2025.

Jun 17, 2025

Visitors to the 2025 Paris Airshow can explore Emirates' upgraded Business Class and Premium Economy cabins, as well as its Economy Class.

Jun 17, 2025

Delta Air Lines has inaugurated its first nonstop flight from Salt Lake City to Seoul-Incheon, establishing a new link between the American West and Asia.

Jun 17, 2025

Emirates has introduced a new range of children's toys and bags available on flights worldwide.

Jun 17, 2025

Emirates has partnered with NBA Cares to renovate the technology and gaming room at the Wheeler-Dowe Club in Indianapolis.

Jun 17, 2025

Delta Air Lines has expressed its support for the recent trade agreement between the United States and the United Kingdom.

Jun 17, 2025