Boeing 737NG Operates Longest Routes from US, Surpassing 2,750 Miles

The Boeing 737NG series continues to demonstrate its operational flexibility, with several long-haul routes surpassing 2,750 miles in January 2026. While the Airbus A320 series has recently taken the lead as the world’s best-selling narrowbody aircraft, the Boeing 737 remains a favored choice among airlines for both domestic and international operations. This year, specific routes have showcased the aircraft’s capability to serve longer distances efficiently.

Copa Airlines Leads the Way

Copa Airlines will operate the longest US-bound route utilizing the Boeing 737NG, covering a distance of 2,917 miles (4,694.5 km) from its hub in Panama City (PTY) to Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, Nevada. The airline plans to conduct 11 flights in each direction throughout January, primarily focusing on the first two weeks of the month. Passengers can expect around seven hours of block time for evening flights from Panama City, while the return journey will take approximately 6.5 hours overnight. Copa Airlines has maintained this route since 2012, with David DeFossey, the airline’s Vice President of Commercial, noting the significance of their connection to Las Vegas and its access to over 55 Latin American and Caribbean cities.

Alaska Airlines Connects Remote States

Among US-based carriers, Alaska Airlines is set to operate the longest Boeing 737NG route this January, connecting Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) to Kahului Airport (OGG) in Maui. This route spans 2,796 miles (4,499.7 km) and will have three flights scheduled for the month. Like Copa, Alaska will also utilize the Boeing 737-800 model for these services. According to fleet data from aeroLOPA, this aircraft will be configured in a two-class layout, featuring 12 domestic first class and 147 economy seats, or alternatively, 16 domestic first class and 145 economy seats. The specific configuration for the Anchorage-Maui route will include a 159-seat setup.

In addition to the Maui route, Alaska Airlines will also operate nonstop flights from Anchorage to Honolulu (HNL), covering 2,777 miles (4,469.1 km). Interestingly, while the outbound flights to HNL will utilize the 159-seat Boeing 737-800, the return flights to ANC will be serviced by the larger 737-900ER, which accommodates 178 seats.

WestJet’s Sunshine Route to Florida

Further afield, Canadian airline WestJet will connect Vancouver (YVR) to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) with a route measuring 2,793 miles (4,494.9 km). Scheduled to operate weekly, the first flight will depart Vancouver on January 10, 2026, with the return leg occurring the following day. The outbound flight, which operates overnight, is expected to take just under six hours, while the return leg will last almost seven hours. The Boeing 737-800 will again be the aircraft of choice, configured with 12 business and 162 economy seats.

These routes illustrate the ongoing versatility and demand for the Boeing 737NG, showcasing its ability to connect distant locales effectively. As airlines continue to leverage this aircraft for longer flights, the impact on international travel patterns remains significant.