The use of flaps and slats on the leading edge of the wings alters the aerodynamic qualities and camber of the wings allowing more lift to be created at lower airspeed which shortens the takeoff roll. No commercial aircraft would attempt to takeoff or land without flaps extension.

Yes, a Boeing 737 can land without flaps, but it is a highly non-standard and challenging emergency procedure known as a "Flapless Landing." Flaps are designed to increase lift and drag, allowing the plane to fly at slower speeds and a steeper angle during the final approach. Without them, the 737 must maintain a much higher approach speed—often 30 to 50 knots faster than a normal landing—to avoid stalling. This means the pilot must have a significantly longer runway to bring the aircraft to a stop, as the "touchdown" speed will be much higher and the brakes will have to work overtime. During a flapless landing, the aircraft also flies at a very nose-high pitch, which can restrict the pilot's view of the runway until the final moments. Flight crews undergo extensive simulator training for this specific scenario (caused by hydraulic or mechanical failure). In 2026, modern avionics provide the pilot with exact "Vref" speed calculations for a zero-flap configuration, and while the landing will be "flat" and very fast, the 737's robust braking and spoiler systems are more than capable of handling the energy, provided the runway is long enough and the pilot manages the descent precisely.