Narrowbody airliners · Boeing
Boeing 737 MAX 8 B38M
The Boeing 737 MAX 8 is the re-engined successor to the 737-800, with the same basic size and 162 to 189 seats but larger, more efficient LEAP-1B engines. It burns roughly 14 percent less fuel than the 737-800. It is the most-ordered version of the 737 MAX family.
737 MAX 8s airborne over the US now
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of all airborne aircraftplus — on the ground
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737 MAX 8s in the air over the last 24 hours
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Specifications
- ICAO code
- B38M
- First flight
- 2016
- Typical cruise
- 453 kt / 521 mph
- Service ceiling
- 41,000 ft
- Range
- 3,500 nm / 4,028 mi
- Capacity
- 162-189 seats
- Length
- 39.5 m / 130 ft
- Wingspan
- 35.9 m / 118 ft
Engines: 2 x CFM LEAP-1B turbofans. Family: 737 MAX. Figures are typical published values, rounded; real performance depends on variant, weight and conditions.
What it does in US skies
Southwest, American, United and Alaska fly growing MAX 8 fleets on domestic, Caribbean and Mexico routes. It is quickly becoming one of the most common types over the US as deliveries continue.
Main US operators: Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines, Alaska Airlines.
How to recognize a 737 MAX 8
- Split-tip 'AT' winglets that point both up and down.
- Larger, rounder engine nacelles with sawtooth chevrons on the rear edge.
- Blunt, flattened tail cone instead of the older 737's point.
- Same body length and door layout as the 737-800.
How it looks on a flight tracker
Typically cruises at FL330 to FL390 at 420 to 520 kt. Look for SWA, AAL, UAL and ASA callsigns. The high-density 737-8200 used by Ryanair in Europe shares the same B38M code.
History
The MAX 8 entered service with Malindo Air in 2017. It was grounded worldwide from March 2019 to late 2020 after two fatal accidents, then returned to service following software and training changes.
Where 737 MAX 8s are right now
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What is the ICAO code for the Boeing 737 MAX 8?
The ICAO aircraft type designator for the Boeing 737 MAX 8 is B38M. Flight trackers and flight plans use this four-character code.
How fast does the 737 MAX 8 fly?
The Boeing 737 MAX 8 typically cruises at about 453 knots true airspeed (about 521 mph). Ground speed on a tracker varies with the wind.
How high can the 737 MAX 8 fly?
Its service ceiling is about 41,000 ft.