There's been a lot of talk lately about a replacement for the 757. The fact is, today's 737 and other airplanes its size already fly 90 percent of flights that used to be operated with a 757. And in the future, that number will jump to 95 percent thanks to airplanes like the 737 MAX.
For example, take Norwegian Airlines. They recently announced plans to use the 737 MAX 8 on transatlantic routes beginning in 2017. Other large 757 operators have publicly noted their continued discussions with Boeing around airplanes for transatlantic missions.
Meanwhile, Airbus claims its proposed long ranger version of the A321neo is a true 757 replacement. In reality, it falls short in two big ways. It can't match the 757's range, and it can't carry as many passengers.
The 737 MAX 9 and the A321neoLR are both capable of North Atlantic range by adding auxiliary tanks, with the 737 MAX 9 flying the mission more efficiently. The A321neoLR needs three auxiliary tanks and increased takeoff weight- while the 737 MAX 9 could do the mission with just one auxiliary tank, allowing for more cargo space.
The 737 MAX 8 and MAX 9.
The 737 MAX is a great airplane that's sized right for the heart of the single-aisle market- along with the right range capabilities. It's a key part of our overall product development strategy, that along with the 777X and 787-10, is set for the next decade.
As for that space in between the upper end of the 737 and the 787-8, we continue to talk with our customers to better understand their needs in the future.