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Boeing 737-400 vs. Bombardier CRJ-900

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737-400

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CRJ-900

Price (USD)
$50 Million$42 Million
First Flight
19882001
Body Type
Narrow-bodyNarrow-body
Length
36 m119 ft
36 m118 ft
Wingspan
28 m94 ft
24 m81 ft
Wing Area
105 m²1,134 ft²
71 m²765 ft²
Fuselage Width
3 m12 ft
2 m8 ft
Height
11 m36 ft
7 m24 ft
Max Takeoff Weight
68,000 kg149,914 lbs
38,300 kg84,437 lbs
Number of Engines
22
Engine Options
CFMI CFM56General Electric CF34
Max Thrust Per Engine
98 kN22,000 lbf
64 kN14,500 lbf
Max Total Thrust
196 kN44,000 lbf
129 kN29,000 lbf
Fuel Capacity
20,100 l5,310 gal
11,700 l3,091 gal
Range
3,850 km2,079 nm
2,871 km1,550 nm
Cruise Speed
796 km/h495 mph
830 km/h516 mph
Typical Seating
144 pax81 pax
Max Seating
188 pax90 pax

What Are the Differences Between the Boeing 737-400 and Bombardier CRJ-900

Boeing 737-400 vs Bombardier CRJ-900 Size Comparison

  • At 36.50 meters, the Boeing 737-400 is 0.30 meters longer than the Bombardier CRJ-900.
  • With a wingspan of 28.80 meters, the Boeing 737-400 is 3.90 meters wider from wingtip to wingtip.
  • The Boeing 737-400 and Bombardier CRJ-900 have heights of 11.10 meters and 7.50 meters respectively - making the Boeing 737-400 3.60 meters taller.

Boeing 737-400 vs Bombardier CRJ-900 Range

  • Boeing 737-400’s range of 3,850 kilometers is greater than Bombardier CRJ-900’s range of 2,871 kilometers. Therefore, the Boeing 737-400 can fly nonstop approximately 979 kilometers further.
  • The Boeing 737-400 can hold 5,310 gallons of fuel, which is 2,219 gallons more than the Bombardier CRJ-900’s tank capacity of 3,091 gallons.

Boeing 737-400 vs Bombardier CRJ-900 Seating

  • In a typical seating configuration, the Boeing 737-400 can accommodate 144 passengers, which is about 63 passengers more than Bombardier CRJ-900’s seating capacity.
  • The Boeing 737-400’s max seating capacity is 188 passengers, compared to 90 passengers of the Bombardier CRJ-900.

About the Boeing 737-400

The Boeing 737-400, part of the 737 Classic series, is a narrow-body, twin-engine airliner developed to meet the evolving requirements of the short to medium-haul market. First introduced in 1988, the 737-400 expanded upon the success of its predecessor, the 737-300. The -400 variant entered manufacturing shortly after finalization of design plans between Boeing and launch customer Piedmont Airlines (later merged into US Airways). It gives increased capacity and range, offering an option in between Boeing's 737-300 and the 757-200.

The fuselage incorporated a key 8 foot expansion to enable typical accommodation for up to 170 passengers in a 2-class layout. Other changes included increased weights and structural reinforcements, enhanced avionics/flight controls, and higher thrust CFM powerplants required for the heavier max takeoff figures. Cost efficiencies were achieved keeping cockpit continuity with the ubiquitous 737 flight deck suite.

Spanning 119.6 feet (36.5 meters) in length with a wingspan of 94.5 feet (28.8 meters), the 737-400 was designed to accommodate the growing demand for larger single-aisle aircraft. The aircraft typically seats 144 passengers, providing more space and comfort compared to earlier models in the series. This increased capacity made the 737-400 an attractive option for airlines seeking to transport more passengers on popular routes, without the need for a larger, wide-body aircraft. Equipped with two CFM International CFM56-3C1 engines, the 737-400 delivers a total thrust of 44,000 lbf (196.0 kN). This engine configuration, combined with a fuel capacity of 5,310 US gallons (20,100 liters), allows the aircraft to achieve a range of 2,079 nautical miles (3,850 kilometers).

In the competitive commercial aviation market of its time, the Boeing 737-400 contended with models like the McDonnell Douglas MD-80 series. Its introduction marked another milestone for Boeing in the evolution of the 737 family, solidifying the company's position in the market for short to medium-haul airliners. Airlines such as Alaska Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and British Airways incorporated the Boeing 737-400 into their fleets. The aircraft's operational role was significant, enabling these carriers to expand their route networks and increase flight frequencies, particularly in domestic and regional markets.

About the Bombardier CRJ-900

The Bombardier CRJ-900, a member of the Canadair Regional Jet series, is a narrow-body regional jet designed for efficient short to medium-haul air travel. First entering service in 2001, the CRJ-900 was developed as an extended version of the CRJ-700, offering greater passenger capacity and slightly longer range capabilities. The -900 was the most popular CRJ variant, with over 487 deliveries throughout its production.

With an overall length of 36.2 meters (118.8 feet) and a wingspan of 24.9 meters (81.7 feet), the CRJ-900 is larger than its predecessor, enabling it to accommodate more passengers. Designed primarily for regional airline operations, the CRJ-900's dimensions allow it to operate effectively in smaller airports, which is a key requirement for regional air travel. Powered by two rear-mounted GE CF34 engines, the CRJ-900 delivers a total maximum thrust of 129.0 kN (29,000 lbf), and has a range of 2,871 kilometers (1,550 nautical miles). The aircraft's operational efficiency and range make it a versatile choice for airlines looking to connect smaller cities and towns with major airline hubs.

The cabin of the CRJ-900 is configured to seat around 81 passengers in a standard layout, with a maximum capacity of 90 passengers in a higher-density arrangement. In the regional aircraft market, the Bombardier CRJ-900 competes with other regional jets such as the Embraer E175. Airlines that operate the CRJ-900 include American Eagle, Delta Connection, and Lufthansa CityLine. These carriers utilize the CRJ-900's strengths in serving regional networks, benefiting from its ability to efficiently connect smaller airports with larger travel hubs. The aircraft's role in regional aviation is characterized by its adaptability to varying route structures and its capacity to offer a comfortable travel experience on short to medium-haul flights.

The Bombardier CRJ-900's production and operational history highlight its importance in the regional jet market. Its design and capabilities align with the needs of regional airlines, providing a practical and efficient solution for connecting communities and fostering accessibility to air travel across regional networks. The last CRJ-900 to ever be built was delivered in 2021 to SkyWest Airlines.

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Values shown may not be 100% accurate, as some metrics are averages or only represent certain production years and configurations. Engine specs are based on the best options available.

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