737-8, the true 757 replacement

Boeing is faced with reengining or new design decisions with its best-selling 737 model lineup. It is also faced with the CSeries challenge from Bombardier, the NEO reengined A320 from Airbus, the Comac 919 from China and the Russian MS-21. Embraer may come out with an E-190 refresh or even a clean sheet design for a new airliner. The GTF-powered Japanese MRJ is not of the same capacity range.

737 GTF concept - FlightGlobal picture

Given these challengers, Boeing may opt to leverage the upcoming 757 replacement cycle by coming out with the 737-8. The 737-8 may have the following specs:

1. Longer than the 737-900 to increase seat count
2. GTF-powered, taking advantage of the higher landing gear to accomodate the longer fuselage
3. New composite wings to accomodate the larger diameter GTF engine, and higher payload
4. 787-style cockpit and interior
5. More composite material content
6. Aerodynamic tweaks
7. Front wheel electric tug for taxiing

The 737-8 may become feasible if Boeing can get at least 250 orders, both for 757 replacements and new placements. Boeing have been very successful in other 737 derivatives, including the P-8A Poseidon MPA that combines the -800 and -900 models into a new model.

Then to face the Bombardier CSeries and other super regional airliner competition, Boeing can come out with the 717 replacement, an all-new design airliner. It can have cockpit and other compatabilities with the 737-8.

In effect, Boeing will split the wide 737 range into a two model range.