Boeing 737: -100 and -200 (Historic Commercial Aircraft Series)

The Boeing 707 and 727's success led to the development of the Boeing 737, which offered airlines an alternative to the larger models, making it ideal for shorter routes with fewer passengers. The 737-100 made its maiden flight in 1967 and began flying commercially for Lufthansa. A significant order from United Airlines resulted in the slightly larger 737-200 being built, which soon became the standard size model. Despite initial slow sales, these early models would eventually prove to be an enormous success and herald the beginnings of a family of airliners that are still in production today as the 737 MAX.

By the time the final 737-200 was delivered in 1988, over 1,000 examples had been built for customers around the world, including military variants and those capable of carrying cargo. Today, a small number of these early 737 models remain in service, providing a useful role in serving Canada's remote communities and in developing countries.

This book, with over 150 images, looks at the history of the Boeing 737-100 and -200 and the many airlines and operators around the world that have flown them. The 737 has become a mainstay of the commercial aviation industry, with its versatility and reliability making it a popular choice for airlines of all sizes.

The 737's origins can be traced back to the late 1960s, when Boeing was looking to develop a smaller, more fuel-efficient aircraft to complement its larger 707 and 727 models. The company's experience with these earlier designs, coupled with advances in technology, allowed it to create a new aircraft that could operate on shorter routes and carry fewer passengers.

The 737-100 made its first flight on April 9, 1967, and entered commercial service with Lufthansa later that year. This initial model was quickly followed by the larger 737-200, which featured a slightly longer fuselage and greater passenger capacity. These early 737 variants would go on to become workhorses for airlines around the world, serving both domestic and regional routes.

Despite some early challenges, the 737 would eventually become one of the most successful commercial aircraft in history. As airlines sought to replace aging fleets and expand their operations, the 737 proved to be an attractive and reliable option. Its ability to operate from shorter runways and its relatively low operating costs made it a popular choice for both legacy carriers and low-cost airlines.

Over the years, the 737 family has evolved, with numerous variants and upgrades introduced to meet the changing needs of the aviation industry. The latest iteration, the 737 MAX, has faced its own challenges, but the overall success of the 737 program is undeniable. Today, the 737 remains a vital component of the global air transportation system, connecting people and goods across the world.

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