Why was 737NG developed?
With all the MAX troubles, one question is still bothering me. Why Boeing developed 737NG instead of a clean sheet design? It sure looks like THAT was the point where trouble started. MAX's development was a catch-up race with A320neo, and they had to act fast. But what happened in early 1990s?
They were in the black with 757 and 767. 747-400 was selling well. Initial 777 development was behind them. But still they opted to facelift a model that already was too old. A320 was already flying and selling, so they couldn't have missed it, and they should've realized it's a strong competitor. And they sure had all the ability to develop the electronics bells and whistles they incorporated into 777. It was the time before the disastrous merger with MD, so no influence from there. WHY did they opt to put crutches on 737 "Classic" instead of a fully new machine?