737MAX

Thought this would be a fun thread, even though we are a long ways out from the first scheduled MAX 8 service for SWA. What's everyone's thoughts on the MAX's first scheduled route for SWA? Part of me thinks they may stretch it's legs on say LAX/SAN-BWI but I could also see DAL getting it first for obvious reasons

alggag

Is the MAX enough of a "new" design that they might keep it isolated to certain stations for training and familiarization for a few weeks or will it go straight into the full system on day 1?

Wingrider

LAX<->DAL<->BWI They'd want their new toy passing through home base.

OR- Orlando MCO at one end.

AMflier

I agree that the new toy will pass through the home base, but I suspect that they will take full advantage of the fuel economy and fly it to stations with the most expensive fuel costs.

uastarflyer

Real question is when they get unleashed to the islands

etna

Would the MAX yield equal fuel savings on a hop/skip/jump transcon versus a long N/S, say BWI>SAN ? Is the savings differential from older models more at cruise, takeoff, or both ?

texashoser

I'm sure Boeing and WN have run the numbers, but you'll get savings in both takeoff and cruise due to the more efficient wings, winglets, higher and more flush engine mounts, and lighter and more fuel efficient wings (they are using composite fan blades for the fan up front in the CFM LEAP engines).

That said, takeoff is by far the most fuel burning phase of flight on a per-minute basis. My guess would be that between an 800-NG vs. an 800-MAX you'd come out ahead if you put the MAX on the short-haul routes.

Of course, takeoff/landing cycles come into play as well. With a lighter body and new composite materials, the MAX might do better when it comes to the repeated stresses of landings and pressurization cycles.

This is all just speculation, of course.

Perhaps OPNLguy can chime in if he has any info thus far.

N830MH

He will tell us when. If they received the first 737-8MAX delivery in between 2nd or 3rd quarter 2017. It will happens.

Just be patient. Give it a chance. Right now, the entire 737-8MAX is taking the flight tests.