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Is it possible to roll a 737?

Sure. It is quite capable of doing an aileron roll or a barrel roll.



Technically, it is aerodynamically possible to perform a "barrel roll" in a Boeing 737, but it is not a maneuver the aircraft is certified for, nor is it ever performed in commercial operations. A barrel roll, if executed perfectly, is a "1-G" maneuver where the aircraft maintains positive gravity throughout the rotation, meaning the plane doesn't "know" it's upside down. Historically, test pilot "Tex" Johnston famously barrel-rolled a Boeing 367-80 (the 707 prototype) in 1955 to demonstrate its strength. However, a modern 737 is designed for maximum fuel efficiency and passenger comfort within a specific "flight envelope." Attempting a roll in a standard 737 carries extreme risk; any slight error in the maneuver could lead to a high-speed dive or structural failure due to excessive stress on the wings and airframe. While flight simulators can replicate the physics of a roll, in the real world, the flight control computers and safety "envelopes" of modern jets are designed to prevent such extreme bank angles to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the aircraft.

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Without engine thrust, the 747 had a glide ratio of 15:1, meaning it can glide forward 15 kilometres for every kilometre it drops.

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Former United CEO Oscar Munoz shared precisely why his company decided to retire the jet. He explained that it had started to become a struggle to maintain. Ultimately, the age of the type has reduced its efficiency across the board.

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For example, with a glide ratio of 15:1, a Boeing 747-200 can glide for 150 kilometres (93 mi; 81 nmi) from a cruising altitude of 10,000 metres (33,000 ft).

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Additionally, for the Boeing 747-400 and Boeing 787-8, there is an automatic aileron lockout system in place. This prevents the aircraft from performing any manoeuvres that might stress the airframe, such as a roll upside down.

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It can dump fuel to reduce its weight. And it is a surprisingly good glider, which ensures that the chances of landing successfully with one engine running are pretty good, as it slows down the rate of descent significantly. However, one engine is not enough to maintain a safe flying altitude for a Boeing 747.

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The maximum cruising altitude for the new generation of 737 planes is 41,000 feet. At this altitude, 737 jets can still have great fuel efficiency and safety standards thanks to avoiding powerful winds and bad weather. However, its optimal altitude is around 37,000 feet.

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