The Boeing 737-600 is the smallest variant of the Boeing 737 Next Generation (NG) family of aircraft. The 737 NG series (which also includes the -700, -800, and -900) was developed in the 1990s as a significant upgrade to the classic 737 series, incorporating new wings, engines, and an updated flight deck.
Here are some key characteristics of the Boeing 737-600:
- Role: Designed for short to medium-haul commercial passenger flights, typically on routes with lower passenger demand where a larger aircraft would not be economical.
- Size: It is the shortest of the 737 NG family, making it the direct successor to the 737-500 from the Classic series. Its smaller size means it has a shorter range and lower passenger capacity compared to its larger NG siblings.
- Engines: Like all 737 NGs, it is powered by two CFM56-7B turbofan engines, which are known for their reliability and fuel efficiency. These engines offer good performance for its size.
- Passenger Capacity: Typically seats between 108 and 132 passengers in a two-class configuration, or up to 149 in a high-density, single-class layout.
- Range: It has a range of approximately 5,648 km (3,509 miles), making it suitable for regional and some transcontinental routes.
- Wings: Features the advanced "Next Generation" wing design, which includes larger wingspan, greater chord, and winglets (often optional) for improved aerodynamics and fuel efficiency compared to earlier 737 models.
- Flight Deck: Equipped with a modern "glass cockpit" featuring electronic flight instrument displays, advanced avionics, and a full digital flight management system, similar to other 737 NG aircraft, which reduces pilot workload and enhances situational awareness.
- Operational History: The 737-600 first flew in 1998 and entered service with SAS (Scandinavian Airlines System) in 1999. However, it was the slowest-selling 737 NG variant, with only 69 aircraft ever built. Its relatively small capacity meant that many airlines opted for the slightly larger and more versatile 737-700 or moved to regional jets for smaller routes. Boeing officially removed it from its price list in 2016.
- Commonality: Despite its limited sales, it shares a high degree of commonality with the other 737 NG variants in terms of systems, maintenance, and pilot training, which was a key design principle for the 737 family.
