What is aircraft type 73H?

The Mystery of the 73H: Decoding the Airline Code

You might have seen “73H” pop up on a flight tracking app or website and wondered, what kind of aircraft is that? A new model? A secret military plane? The answer is far less mysterious but no less interesting. The 73H isn’t a new aircraft type at all. It’s simply a code used by some airlines and flight tracking systems to designate a specific configuration of the ubiquitous Boeing 737-800.

The Boeing 737-800 is a workhorse of the skies, a familiar sight in airports worldwide. Known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and passenger capacity, it’s a popular choice for short- to medium-haul flights. But while the basic airframe remains the same, airlines often customize their 737-800s with different seating configurations, entertainment systems, and even engine choices. This is where the 73H designation comes into play.

Think of it like ordering a car. The base model might be the same, but you can choose different packages that add features like leather seats, a sunroof, or a more powerful engine. Similarly, the 73H code likely represents a specific package of options chosen by an airline for its 737-800 fleet. This could refer to a particular seating arrangement, the presence of Wi-Fi, or even a slightly modified engine variant.

Why use a different code like 73H instead of simply 737-800? This is likely for internal airline use and for easier data management within flight tracking systems. By using a shorter code, airlines can streamline their operations and quickly identify specific configurations within their fleet. It also allows for more granular tracking of aircraft performance and maintenance schedules.

Which airlines use this code? That’s the tricky part. While publicly available information connecting specific airlines to the 73H code is limited, it’s likely used internally and may appear on certain flight tracking platforms. If you encounter this designation, it’s a safe bet you’re looking at a variant of the Boeing 737-800.

So, the next time you see 73H, remember it’s not a new aircraft, but rather a coded representation of a specific configuration of the popular Boeing 737-800. It’s a testament to the adaptability and versatility of this aircraft, allowing airlines to tailor it to their specific needs and the demands of their routes.