Boeing
Boeing 737-300
733
B733
Out of Production
The Boeing 737-300 opened the 737 Classic series, introducing the fuel-efficient CFM56 turbofan that would define the family for decades. It seats about 128 passengers in two classes and up to 149 single-class, with a range near 4,400 km at a cruise of 793 km/h. First flown in 1984, the -300 is 33.4 metres long with a 28.9-metre wingspan and a maximum takeoff weight of 56,470 kg. Replacing the earlier JT8D-powered 737 models, it brought modern turbofan performance and improved economics to the short-haul market, and its commercial success set the pattern for the larger -400 and shorter -500 that completed the Classic line.
On this page
Dimensions
- Length
- 33.40 m
- Wingspan
- 28.88 m
- Height
- 11.13 m
- Cabin Width
- 3.54 m
Performance
- Range
- 4,400 km
- Cruise Speed
- 793 km/h
- Max Speed
- 876 km/h
- Service Ceiling
- 11,300 m
- Category
- medium-haul
Capacity
- Typical Seats
- 128
- Max Seats
- 149
- Cargo Volume
- 24.40 m³
- Size
- narrow-body
Engines
- Count
- 2
- Type
- Turbofan
- Model
- CFM56-3B1
Airlines (6)
Family Variants
Engine Profiles
About Boeing 737-300
보잉 737 클래식 시리즈의 첫 번째 기종으로, 연료 효율성의 기준을 세운 CFM56 엔진을 도입했습니다. -300은 단거리 시장에 현대적인 터보팬 성능을 가져왔습니다.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Boeing 737-300 typically seats 128 passengers in a two-class configuration. In a single-class high-density layout, it can carry up to 149 passengers. The 737-300 was the first member of the 737 Classic series and introduced the CFM56 engine to the 737 family, replacing the older Pratt & Whitney JT8D used on the 737-200.
The Boeing 737-300 has a maximum range of approximately 4,400 km (2,376 nautical miles). The switch to CFM56-3B1 turbofan engines provided a 20% improvement in fuel efficiency over the 737-200. The CFM56's larger fan diameter required the distinctive flat-bottomed nacelle design that became a signature feature of the 737 family through the NG generation.
The 737-300 was a major leap forward from the 737-200, offering 20% better fuel efficiency from the CFM56 engines, significantly lower noise levels, and a stretched fuselage carrying 20 more passengers. The cockpit was modernized with EFIS-capable instruments. The 737-300 also introduced the distinctive non-circular engine nacelle shape that the 737 would keep until the MAX series. The 737-300 sold 1,113 units versus the 737-200's 1,095.
The 737-300 was the first 737 to feature the CFM56 engine with its characteristic flat-bottomed nacelle (designed to maintain ground clearance on the short 737 landing gear). It has no winglets and features the Classic-era cockpit windows. At 33.4 m, it sits between the shorter -500 and longer -400 in the Classic family. The flat-bottomed engine nacelle is the most distinctive visual feature separating the 737 Classic from earlier cigar-shaped JT8D nacelles.
The 737-300, which first flew in February 1984, saved the 737 program from potential discontinuation. Boeing had considered ending the 737 line, but the introduction of CFM56 engines and a modernized design revitalized interest. With 1,113 deliveries, it established the 737 as the best-selling commercial aircraft family. Southwest Airlines was one of the largest operators, using the 737-300 to build its low-cost network across the United States. Most 737-300s have been retired, though some continue flying in developing regions.