Boeing 737NG Takes Long-Haul Flights: Routes Over 2,750 Miles

The Boeing 737NG continues to demonstrate its versatility as airlines operate long-haul routes exceeding 2,750 miles. While the Airbus A320 series has overtaken the 737 as the best-selling narrowbody aircraft, the Boeing 737 remains a favored choice for a range of operators. Notably, January 2026 will see several extended flights utilizing this aircraft type, according to scheduling data from Cirium, an aviation analytics company.

Copa Airlines Leads with Longest US-Bound Route

Copa Airlines will operate the longest route from the US with its flight from Panama City (PTY) to Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas (LAS). This route spans approximately 2,917 miles (4,694.5 km) and will feature the Boeing 737-800 model, with a total of 11 flights in each direction scheduled for January. The outbound journey will take about seven hours, while the return flight is expected to last around 6.5 hours. Copa Airlines has been flying this corridor since 2012, with David DeFossey, the airline’s representative, stating, “We are very proud of our 10 years of operations in Las Vegas. Our continued partnership has offered a travel gateway from Las Vegas to more than 55 Latin American and Caribbean cities.”

Alaska Airlines Connects Remote States

In the realm of US carriers, Alaska Airlines will feature the second-longest route involving the Boeing 737NG. The airline will connect its hub at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) with Kahului Airport (OGG) in Maui, covering a distance of 2,796 miles (4,499.7 km). This service is set to operate three times in January. The 737-800 will be configured with a two-class layout, serving 159 passengers on the Anchorage to Maui route. Additionally, Alaska Airlines will provide nonstop flights from Anchorage to Honolulu (HNL), which spans 2,777 miles (4,469.1 km). Interestingly, while the 737-800 will manage the outbound flights to HNL, the return legs will utilize the larger 737-900ER, accommodating 178 passengers.

WestJet, a Canadian airline, will also contribute to the long-haul landscape with its route from Vancouver (YVR) to Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport (FLL). This flight measures approximately 2,793 miles (4,494.9 km) and will be operated weekly in January, with the first flight set to depart on January 10, 2026. The outbound leg, which operates overnight, is expected to take just under six hours, while the return journey will take almost seven hours. WestJet has chosen the Boeing 737-800 for this route, featuring a configuration of 12 business class and 162 economy seats.

The operational flexibility of the Boeing 737 series allows airlines to maintain connectivity over significant distances, catering to diverse passenger needs and preferences. As these routes indicate, the 737NG continues to play a vital role in the air travel industry, linking cities across North America and beyond.