Sergei Filippov · CEO, Wingform
The Boeing 737 MAX and Airbus A320neo are direct competitors that together serve over 60% of the world's air routes. Both families are deep modernizations of proven platforms, but the manufacturers took fundamentally different approaches.
| Parameter | 737 MAX 8 | A320neo |
|---|
| Range | 6,570 km | 6,300 km |
| Passengers | 162–210 | 150–194 |
| Cabin width | 3.53 m | 3.70 m |
| Engines | CFM LEAP-1B | CFM LEAP-1A / PW1100G |
| Fuel burn | -14% vs prev. | -15% vs prev. |
The A320neo wins on cabin width — the 17 cm difference is noticeable, especially in economy. Wider seats, roomier aisle. Boeing counters with enlarged Sky Interior overhead bins that fit roller bags vertically.
Noise insulation is roughly equal thanks to the new-generation LEAP engines. However, passengers note the A320neo is slightly quieter in the rear rows.
The 737 MAX climbs faster and has a slightly higher cruise speed. The A320neo lands more smoothly thanks to longer landing gear struts. Both handle turbulence predictably, but the wider Airbus wing provides a slight edge.
Boeing offers better fuel efficiency on routes over 4,000 km. Airbus is more economical on short hops under 2 hours thanks to faster turnaround.
For passengers, the A320neo is more comfortable. For airlines, it depends on the route network. But both aircraft are a huge step forward from their predecessors.
The two most advanced wide-body aircraft in the world. How they differ for passengers and airlines.
