B737NG replacement to be modestly bigger than existing aircraft

Boeing Chairman and CEO Jim McNerney stated that an all-new replacement for the B737NG would be "modestly bigger" than the existing aircraft and reaffirmed Boeing's preference for developing a new aircraft (MarketWatch, 24-May-2011). Mr McNerney also confirmed that the company is not planning to develop a widebody as a replacement, or develop an aircraft to fill the gap left by the discontinued B757. Boeing will still retain the option of revamping the B737NG with new engines, if plans for the development of an all-new aircraft are not in place by 2012 (Bloomberg, 24-May-2011). A re-engined B737NG could be available by 2016.