Text by Ge Rufeng Photos by Yang Xue, Li Pengcheng Translation by Irene

CLEANER, QUIETER, AND MORE EFFICIENT

Text by Ge Rufeng Photos by Yang Xue, Li Pengcheng Translation by Irene

The New Boeing 737 Max Delivered to China Southern Airlines

On 1st December 2017, a brand new Boeing 737 Max 8 with the sign of a Kapok fl ower landed at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. This is the fi rst of the 50 latest single aisle narrow bodied airplanes China Southern has ordered from Boeing.

Since its debut in 1962, the leading aircraft manufacturer Boeing has launched four generations of 737s. The 737-100 and 737-200 were the fi rst generation called Original. The 737-300, 737-400,and 737-500 were the second generation called Classic. Whilst the Next Generation (NG) includes 737-600,737-700, 737-800 and 737-900.

The fourth generation, i.e. the 737 MAX is the latest model of the 737 series, claimed by Boeing as the most effi cient airplane in history. Estimated by China Southern's SOC (System Operations Control Center), the 737 MAX increases fuel effi ciency by 15% over the 737NG.

The increase of effi ciency results from the adoption of multiple technologies. The 737 MAX is built with the new CFM LEAP-1B engine, larger and more effi cient than that of 737NG. The new 737 MAX is equipped with the state-of-the-art winglet, plus the shape of the airframe's rear part, further reducing air drag.

The higher effi ciency also means lower carbon emissions. According to Boeing, each 737 MAX aircraft helps reduce 3600 tons of CO2emissions every year.

The new engine and the nacelle featuring chevrons are designed to reduce noise too, so that the cabins are cleaner and quieter.

In terms of cabin layout, China Southern's Boeing 737 MAX is complete with 178 seats, including four fi rst class seats, 24 premium economy seats and 150 economy seats.

The airplane features the new Boeing Sky Interior,highlighted by colour-changing LED lighting that enhances the sense of spaciousness and larger pivoting overhead stowage bins. The cabin is also equipped with 1080P High Defi nition TV, and WLAN for the in-fl ight entertainment system.