In June of this year there were reportedly eleven -600s in operation: five with Air Algérie and six with Amentum. One aircraft previously registered as N859WP was retired recently after nearly twenty-four years of service.
KF Cargo began reintroducing two former WestJet -600s into service for Aeroflyer—a new Canadian charter airline—raising the number back up to twelve operational aircraft. However, Aeroflyer does not plan scheduled commercial services but instead focuses on charter flights for private groups and tour operators across North America.
“Our goal is to provide flexible, convenient charter travel solutions that get your customers to destinations across North America and beyond. Rooted in Western Canada, our dedicated team draws on decades of homegrown expertise to deliver safe and reliable passenger air services,” states the Aeroflyer website.
Despite being an upgrade over its predecessor—the Boeing 737-500—the -600 sold poorly during its production run from 1995 through 2012. Aviation industry discussions have pointed out that operating costs for the -600 are similar to those of the larger -700 variant; however, the latter can carry more passengers with only a slight increase in fuel consumption. This made the larger model more attractive for airlines seeking higher margins per flight.
"The operating cost of the -600s are very close to the -700. With just a little bit more fuel, the -700 could carry significantly more pax, therefore generating a larger margin. So, the savings of the -600 are marginal at best. With that said, it is as mentioned already just too heavy compared to other aircraft specifically designed for the segment such as the E190 series and 717," reads one comment from an industry forum discussion.
Boeing intended for NG variants like the -600 to offer cost-effective options for airlines upgrading their fleets while maintaining commonality with earlier models—a strategy aimed at reducing maintenance expenses due to shared parts among variants.
"This is a very exciting day for us. We thank SAS for having the confidence and vision to become the launch customer of the 737-600. We know they'll be pleased with the quality, reliability and reduced operating and maintenance costs as well as the environmental benefits this airplane provides," said Jack Gucker, then Boeing vice president following SAS’s first delivery.
While blended winglets were introduced on other NG models (improving efficiency), they were never made available for the -600 variant—another factor limiting its appeal relative to both other Boeing types and competitors like Embraer's E190 or Boeing’s own larger jets.
Past operators of this model included Air China, Austrian Airlines, FlyGlobespan, Lauda Air, Malév Hungarian Airlines, Tunisair—and most notably SAS—with many now retired or repurposed units no longer flying passengers commercially.
Today’s remaining examples see limited use: some fly regular routes within Algeria; others operate classified flights on behalf of U.S government agencies; while two serve North American charters through Aeroflyer in Canada.
Alerts Sign-up
