737-800 Winglets

[arthur harbrow]

Have just flown on a ZS registered Excel 737-8 with winglets and just wondered if these aircraft had any different flying characteristics?Thanks in advance for any replies.

[Gin Slinger]

Slightly lower crosswind limit (our company), 6%* fuel saving in the cruise, but 400 kg* weight penalty. No noticeable handling differences according to those who have flown the -800s before and after the winglets were fitted.

Hope this is interesting.

[* - figures from memory, might not be accurate]

[stilton]

Just curious, why the lower crosswind limit?

[CaptainSandL]

Full tech details avail at www.b737.org.uk/winglets.htm

[jabird]

OK, lots of pros, but I've never seen Ryanair use them - even on their newly delivered "Dreamliner" 737-800. Any idea why not?

[Mr @ Spotty M]

You will find that they are no good on short flights. Fuel savings are on longer flights.