30  May 2023: The ‘Smart: Tried and Tested’ series is back with and this time we’re shining the spotlight on the Boeing Next-Generation 737-800, one of our most popular choices for medium range commercial charters.

Considered to be one of Boeing’s most successful of the 737 series, the 737-800, which was launched in 1994, is a true workhorse and annually sells three and a half times more seats than all the other Next Generation variations combined. 

We regularly use 737-800s for our continual sports movements and also for our comprehensive annual schedule of Lourdes pilgrimage charters.

Let’s take a look at the specifications:

The Next-Generation 737 is powered by twin CFM56-7B turbofan engines, designed to provide superior reliability and maximum fuel efficiency. The overall length of the plane is 39.5m (129 ft 6 in) and it is 12.5m (41ft 3 in) high. The wingspan is 35.8m (117 ft 5 in).

It boasts a high cruising altitude speed of 530mph and a flying range of between 6-7 hours. With a freight capacity limit of 6,220kg (13,710lb) it is no surprise why this is our go to for charters that have considerable passenger and cargo requirements, like sports kits and equipment.

The maximum seating capacity is 189, but there can also be 162 seats with a two-class configuration. 

Mark Hawkins, Smart Aviation’s Managing Director, said: “The Boeing 737-800 aircraft makes up approximately 16% of the number of the total passenger planes currently in worldwide service. Therefore, there are lots of them around used by European operators and most commonly by low cost and charter airlines. We like the fact that it has nine more seats than an Airbus 320, which may not seem like a lot, but when you’re flying sports teams, coaches, physios and more, every seat is important to ensure our clients get the most cost effective solution”. 

Smart Aviation was founded in 2005 by Managing Director Mark Hawkins, an established sports charter specialist with over 30 years’ experience in senior operational roles within the travel and aviation industry, including managing sports charters at Excel Airways. Over the last 18 years, Mark has led Smart Aviation to become the leaders in global sports chartering. Mark is still very active in sports chartering, frequently providing air travel for global sports teams to key sporting fixtures including Champions League and Premier League football matches, as well as to ice-hockey, boxing, basketball, golf, motorsport and cricket tournaments.

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– Exactly what you need

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– Our unrivalled operator relationships and leverage in the European market ensures you get the most cost-effective solution, without compromising on quality.

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