Airlines
especially liked the fact that the 737-400 is a straightforward derivative
of the 737-300; therefore, 737-300 pilots could be cross-qualified. Flight
crews who can operate both a 737-300 and -400 give airlines great
flexibility in scheduling and subsequent savings in fleet operations.The
737-400 was formally launched in June 1986 to augment the fleets of carriers
needing more capacity to meet traffic growth. Rollout of the first 737-400
was Jan. 26, 1988. Following an 8-month flight-test program, first delivery
was Sept. 15, 1988, to kick-off customer Piedmont Airlines.
The 737-400 twinjet retains basic systems commonality with the -300.
Thus, it is a short- to medium-range airliner with increased passenger
seating, low noise levels, low fuel consumption and high dispatch
reliability.
