Boeing 737 MAX 9 vs Airbus A321neo

By: Rocco · June 23, 2023

Comparing the Boeing 737 MAX 9 vs the Airbus A321neo Sharklet? Start with the quick spec breakdown below, then dive into the story for the bigger picture.

Boeing 737 MAX 9
Mid Size Passenger Jets
Boeing 737 MAX 9
Airbus A321neo Sharklet
Mid Size Passenger Jets
Airbus A321neo Sharklet
ICAO: A21N IATA: 32Q Visit aircraft page

General

Units
Boeing 737 MAX 9
Manufacturer
Boeing
ICAO code
B39M
IATA code
Produced
2014–2020
Price
$128.9 million (2019)
Engine
2 × CFM International LEAP-1B
Engine type
Turbofan
Thrust
2 × 29,317 lbf · 130 kN -11% (total)
Avionics
Rockwell Collins
Wing tips
split: Split Scimitar Winglet
Seats
220
Airbus A321neo Sharklet
Manufacturer
Airbus
ICAO code
A21N
IATA code
32Q
Produced
2016–Present
Price
$115 million (2012)
Engine
2 × CFM International LEAP-1A
Engine type
Turbofan
Thrust
2 × 33,110 lbf · 147 kN +13% (total)
Avionics
Wing tips
Blended tips
Seats
244

Dimensions

Boeing 737 MAX 9
Cabin width
11 ft 7 in 3.53 m 11 ft 7 in 3.53 m -5%
Cabin height
8 ft 2 in 2.50 m 8 ft 2 in 2.50 m
Cabin length
137 ft 0 in 41.76 m 137 ft 0 in 41.76 m +21%
Exterior length
138 ft 4 in 42.16 m 138 ft 4 in 42.16 m -5%
Tail height
Fuselage diameter
Wing span
117 ft 10 in 35.92 m 117 ft 10 in 35.92 m +0%
Baggage volume
Airbus A321neo Sharklet
Cabin width
12 ft 2 in 3.70 m 12 ft 2 in 3.70 m +5%
Cabin height
Cabin length
113 ft 0 in 34.44 m 113 ft 0 in 34.44 m -18%
Exterior length
146 ft 0 in 44.51 m 146 ft 0 in 44.51 m +6%
Tail height
38 ft 7 in 11.76 m 38 ft 7 in 11.76 m
Fuselage diameter
13 ft 0 in 3.95 m 13 ft 0 in 3.95 m
Wing span
117 ft 5 in 35.80 m 117 ft 5 in 35.80 m 0%
Baggage volume
193 ft 7 in 59.00 m 193 ft 7 in 59.00 m

Weights

Boeing 737 MAX 9
Max payload
Fuel capacity
6,820 gal 25,816 L 6,820 gal 25,816 L -22%
Max takeoff weight
194,500 lb 88,500 kg 194,500 lb 88,500 kg -9%
Max landing weight
164,000 lb 74,500 kg 164,000 lb 74,500 kg -7%
Airbus A321neo Sharklet
Max payload
56,000 lb 25,500 kg 56,000 lb 25,500 kg
Fuel capacity
8,700 gal 32,933 L 8,700 gal 32,933 L +28%
Max takeoff weight
214,000 lb 97,000 kg 214,000 lb 97,000 kg +10%
Max landing weight
176,500 lb 80,000 kg 176,500 lb 80,000 kg +8%

Performance

Boeing 737 MAX 9
Max cruise speed
453 kt · 521 mph 839 km/h 453 kt 521 mph 839 km/h -4%
Approach speed
Rate of climb
Range
3,550 nm · 4,090 mi 6,570 km 3,550 nm 4,090 mi 6,570 km -11%
Service ceiling
41,000 ft 12,500 m 41,000 ft 12,500 m +3%
Takeoff distance
8,550 ft 2,600 m 8,550 ft 2,600 m +18%
Landing distance
5,600 ft 1,700 m 5,600 ft 1,700 m +6%
Airbus A321neo Sharklet
Max cruise speed
473 kt · 544 mph 876 km/h 473 kt 544 mph 876 km/h +4%
Approach speed
140 kt · 161 mph 259 km/h 140 kt 161 mph 259 km/h
Rate of climb
2,500 ft/min 13 m/s 2,500 ft/min 13 m/s
Range
4,000 nm · 4,600 mi 7,410 km 4,000 nm 4,600 mi 7,410 km +13%
Service ceiling
40,000 ft 12,200 m 40,000 ft 12,200 m -2%
Takeoff distance
7,250 ft 2,210 m 7,250 ft 2,210 m -15%
Landing distance
5,250 ft 1,600 m 5,250 ft 1,600 m -6%

Boeing 737 MAX 9 comparisons

No other comparisons yet.

Airbus A321neo Sharklet comparisons

There are a lot of discussions these days about the 737 and A321. Which one is better? Is the 737 that much better than the A321? Why are people so passionate about this debate?

About the Boeing 737

The Boeing 737 is a twin-engined short-haul airliner developed by Boeing. The 737 has been in production for over 50 years, and just over 11,000 have been built. It was first flown in 1967 and entered service with Lufthansa in 1968.

The 737 is still in production today, and it is operated by several airlines worldwide, including Southwest Airlines, Ryanair, United Airlines, and American Airlines. The 737 has been continually updated over the years, and it is currently available in three different variants: the Classic, the Next Generation, and the MAX.

The MAX variant is the newest and most advanced version of the airplane. It made its maiden flight in 2016 and entered service with Southwest Airlines in 2017.

Why was it developed and built?

The Boeing 737 was developed in response to the increasing demand for short-haul air travel. It was designed to be a smaller, more efficient airplane that could fly shorter distances with fewer passengers than its predecessors.

What purpose does it serve?

The Boeing 737 is a popular choice for short-haul flights. It can carry up to 189 passengers and fly up to 4,000 miles in a single flight. Its efficient design suits it well-suited routes with medium passenger loads and relatively short distances.

About the Airbus A321

The Airbus A321 is a single-aisle airliner explicitly designed for short to medium-haul routes. It has a wingspan of 34 m, a top speed of 876 km/h, and a range of 5,930 km. The A321 was first flown in 1993 and has become one of the most famous aircraft in the Airbus lineup.

It is available with either CFM International CFM56 or IAE V2500 engines. The A321 is often used for transcontinental flights, as it has the range to cover long distances without needing to make refueling stops. It is also one of the quieter aircraft in its class, thanks to its use of newer, more fuel-efficient engines.

Why was it developed and built?

The A321 was designed to fill the gap between the more giant Airbus A330 and the smaller Airbus A320. It was intended to be an efficient aircraft that could carry more passengers than its predecessors while still being inexpensive.

What purpose does it serve?

It serves various purposes, from short-haul flights to long-range international routes. It is a popular choice for airlines that need an aircraft with enough range and capacity to handle medium-distance flights and shorter hops.

How are the Boeing 737 and Airbus A321 different?

The most significant difference between the Boeing 737 and Airbus A321 is size. The 737 has a wingspan of 34 meters, while the A321’s wingspan is 37 meters. This makes the A321 slightly larger than the 737 and able to carry more passengers and cargo.

The 737 is also more fuel-efficient than the A321, thanks to its updated engines and aerodynamic design.

This makes it better suited for shorter routes with lighter passenger loads.

On the other hand, the A321 is better suited for longer flights, as it can cover distances of up to 5,930 km without needing to refuel. It is also quieter than the 737, making it a popular choice for airlines looking for an aircraft that won’t disturb residents.

How are the Boeing 737 and Airbus A321 similar?

Similarly, the Boeing 737 and Airbus A321 are single-aisle airliners designed to meet the demand for short- to medium-range air travel.

They are both available with CFM International or IAE V2500 engines and can carry up to 189 passengers per flight.

In addition, both aircraft have been continually updated over the years to ensure they run efficiently and safely. They also adhere to the same safety standards, making them reliable and safe airline choices.

What’s better about the Boeing 737?

Development:

The Boeing 737 is equipped with the latest technological advancements, making it one of the most advanced and capable commercial aircraft on the market. Various plane models have been developed to improve fuel efficiency, passenger comfort, range, takeoff performance, and handling characteristics. Many also feature integrated navigation systems for more straightforward navigation and improved safety.

Durability:

The Boeing 737 has a reputation for its toughness and durability, with many planes in service for over 20 years. The aircraft is designed to withstand the rigors of high-speed flights, long routes, and other adverse conditions such as rain, snow, ice, and turbulence.

Maintenance:

The Boeing 737 is also known for being relatively easy to maintain, with regular inspections and maintenance procedures designed to ensure the plane functions at its peak performance. The aircraft also features automated systems that detect any potential issues before they become serious problems.

What’s better about the Airbus A321?

Development:

The Airbus A321 is a famous medium-range aircraft developed to improve passengers’ efficiency, performance, and comfort. It features an advanced computer system that allows for automated flight management and navigation systems, optimized fuel consumption, and reduced noise levels.

Engine:

The Airbus A321 is powered by two turbofan engines that are de deliver greater fuel efficiency, increased thrust, and improved safety. Its machines are also capable of producing lower emissions than other aircraft in its class, making it a more environmentally friendly choice.

Maintenance:

The Airbus A321 has been designed for easy maintenance and inspections, with automated systems that detect any potential problems before they become regular severe maintenance, and inspections are recommended to ensure the plane functions at its peak performance. The aircraft also features a comprehensive maintenance tracking system for easier monitoring and troubleshooting.  This helps to ensure the A321 remains in top condition and provides reliable service throughout its lifespan.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many differences between these two aircraft. The Boeing 737 and Airbus A321 have their advantages and disadvantages depending on the mission they are being used for. Ultimately, which airplane you choose will depend on your specific needs and budget.