Boeing 737 MAX 7 vs. Embraer E190

The Boeing 737 MAX 7 is a narrow-body, twin-jet aircraft, and the smallest variant in the re-engineered 737 MAX family. The MAX 7 was originally announced in 2016, but has yet to fly for an airline as of 2023. It had its first flight on March 16, 2018, from the Boeing factory in Washington. The MAX 7 variant will reportedly get certification from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration by April 2024, which will allow carriers to start flying the aircraft in late 2024. Southwest Airlines is expected to be the launch operator for the MAX 7. The 737 MAX 7 is designed to offer enhanced range and capacity for short to medium-haul flights, catering to airlines seeking a modern and flexible solution for their fleets. It is based on the original 737-700, and features very minor modifications in terms of size. It is expected to fly 1,000 nautical miles farther than the -700 with, 18% lower fuel costs per seat.

At 116.7 feet (35.6 meters) in length with a wingspan of 117.8 feet (35.9 meters), the 737 MAX 7 is adept at operating in diverse airport environments, including those with runway and size constraints. The aircraft typically seats 153 passengers, providing a blend of comfort and efficiency that is attractive for airlines operating regional routes. Powered by two CFM International LEAP-1B engines, the MAX 7 achieves a total thrust of 58,600 lbf (260.0 kN). It has a fuel capacity of 6,816 US gallons (25,800 liters), supporting a range of 3,850 nautical miles (7,130 kilometers). With a cruise speed of 521 mph (839 km/h), the 737 MAX 7 offers airlines an efficient means to cover short and medium distances.

Competitors for the MAX 7 include aircraft from Airbus like the A319neo and A220, and the E2 series from Embraer. Airlines such as Southwest Airlines and WestJet have selected the Boeing 737 MAX 7 for its operational flexibility and economic performance. The aircraft's capability to efficiently serve a range of regional routes makes it a valuable addition to airline fleets, especially for carriers looking to optimize their domestic and short-haul networks.

Introduced in 2004, the Embraer E190 is a larger member of the E-Jet family, offering expanded capabilities for regional airlines. As a narrow-body regional jet, the E190 addresses a unique segment of the market, combining increased passenger capacity with the operational flexibility required for regional routes.

At 36.3 meters (118.9 feet) in length, the E190 stands as one of the bigger variants within the E-Jet family. This additional length not only provides more cabin space but also enhances the aircraft's payload and range capabilities. The E190 is equipped with GE engines that offer a combined thrust of 178.0 kN (40,000 lbf). Additionaly, its MTOW of 51,800 kg (114,199 lb) is significantly more than that of the E170/175. With a range of approximately 4,537 kilometers (2,450 nautical miles), the E190 is adept at connecting regional destinations with the efficiency and speed required in modern air travel.

The E190's cabin can comfortably accommodate 100 passengers in a standard configuration, scaling up to 114 passengers in a denser layout. The interior design of the E190 emphasizes passenger comfort, integrating features such as advanced climate control, ergonomic seating, and modern in-flight entertainment options. These elements collectively ensure a pleasant and relaxing journey for passengers, even on longer regional trips.

In its market segment, the Embraer E190 offers a balance of efficiency and capacity that competes with other regional jets and smaller mainline aircraft. Its operational profile makes it a compelling choice for airlines looking to bridge the gap between traditional regional jets and larger single-aisle aircraft. Airlines such as JetBlue (launch customer), KLM Cityhopper, Air Canada, and Georgian Airways have integrated the E190 into their fleets. The aircraft enables these airlines to serve a diverse array of routes, from high-density short-haul sectors to less frequented longer regional routes. In 2018, early production E190s were valued at less than $10 million, while the newer units were worth about $30 million.

The Embraer E190 represents a significant advancement in the regional jet category, offering airlines an aircraft that extends the boundaries of traditional regional aviation. Its combination of enhanced capacity, range, and passenger-focused features make it a valuable asset for airlines seeking to optimize their regional operations while providing high levels of passenger satisfaction.