Says That 737s Can Handle Majority Of The Former Airplanes' Routes

When it comes to aviation, particularly in the airline sector, one of the most-asked questions of manufacturers is 'what's next?". In the case of Boeing, it's been asked particularly in reference to a possible replacement for the 757.

On his blog, Randy Tinseth, vice president, marketing for Boeing Commercial Airplanes in Seattle, says that there already is a replacement for the 757 ... the 737. "Today’s 737 and other airplanes its size already fly 90 percent of flights that used to be operated with a 757. And in the future, that number will jump to 95 percent thanks to airplanes like the 737 MAX," Tinseth wrote.

The Boeing executive also takes the obligatory swipe at rival Airbus, which he says claims that its A321neo is a 757 replacement. "In reality, it falls short in two big ways," Tinseth said on the blog. "It can’t match the 757’s range, and it can’t carry as many passengers.

"The 737 MAX 9 and the A321neoLR are both capable of North Atlantic range by adding auxiliary tanks, with the 737 MAX 9 flying the mission more efficiently. The A321neoLR needs three auxiliary tanks and increased takeoff weight— while the 737 MAX 9 could do the mission with just one auxiliary tank, allowing for more cargo space."

Tinseth wrote that the 737 MAX is "a great airplane that’s sized right for the heart of the single-aisle market— along with the right range capabilities. It’s a key part of our overall product development strategy, that along with the 777X and 787-10, is set for the next decade.

"As for that space in between the upper end of the 737 and the 787-8, we continue to talk with our customers to better understand their needs in the future."

FMI: www.boeingblogs.com