On Friday, 29 September Southwest Airlines retired the last 30 737-300 ‘Classics’ in its fleet ahead of the 737 MAX’s entry into service today. Southwest was the launch customer for the 737-300 in 1984 and took delivery of 150 of the type direct from Boeing. Southwest currently has 200 737 MAX on order.

Goodbye Classics

Over the past few months Southwest transferred at least 58 737-300s to Victorville (VCV) for interim storage. The airline plans to sell all of these aircraft as quickly as possible, so if you’re in the market for a used 737, do reach out to Southwest.

The final scheduled ‘Classic’ flight was WN68 from Houston to Dallas.

In with the MAX

Southwest retired its fleet of 737-300s in anticipation of the 737 MAX’s entry into service today. The airline has taken delivery of nine 737 MAX 8 and has a total of 200 MAX aircraft on order so far.

Track the Southwest 737 MAX with aircraft code ‘B38M’

The first MAX flight was WN1 from Dallas to Houston, one of Southwest’s original routes.

Comparing the Classic and the MAX

Passengers will notice many differences inside the cabin, but the biggest difference may be on the flight deck. Check out a Southwest 737-300 flight deck and then take a look at the upgraded MAX.