The first generation 737s (737-100s and 737-200s) were
first ordered in 1965 and were delivered in December of
1967. Since that time, Boeing has continually modified
its smallest line of jets, resulting in the current
generation of 737s, which includes the enlarged 737-300
(first delivered in 1984 to USAir), the further
enlarged 737-400 (first delivered in 1988 to Piedmont
Airlines), and the smaller 737-500 (first delivered in
1990). Today Boeing is in the process of producing the
next-generation of 737s, comprised of the 600, 700, and
800 series, the first of which are scheduled for
delivery in October 1997. Changes include a larger
wing, higher cruise speed, increased range, and new
engines with improvements in noise, fuel burn and
thrust. With over 3,300 orders the Boeing 737 has
become the world's all time best-selling commercial
jetliner. Over 2,700 have already been delivered to
more than 250 customers in 95 countries. By 1996, 737s
had carried more than 4.3 billion passengers and flown
more than 26.6 billion miles. Through March 31, 1996,
the current generation 737 was the most reliable jet
airplane in commercial aviation, with a dispatch
reliability of 99.4%. Over 700 737s are in the sky at
all times.
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