How much weight do the 737 Next Generation's carbon brakes…

How much weight do the 737 Next Generation's carbon brakes save?

Short answer

Up to 700 pounds (320 kg) compared with the high-capacity steel brakes on the Next Generation 737-700, -800 and -900ER, and 550 pounds (250 kg) compared with standard steel brakes on the -600 and -700. Boeing offered the option at no extra cost, with a service life reaching double the number of landings.

Published: October 31, 2026 · Updated: October 31, 2026 · Edited by Above Ten Thousand · Editorial policy

How much weight do the 737 Next Generation's carbon brakes save?

Gear Actuation Boeing 737-800 EL AL approaching VIE DSC 3259wPeter Haas (CC BY SA), vía commons

Up to 320 kg less weight

The carbon brakes Boeing offered for the 737 Next Generation save up to 700 pounds of weight on the aircraft. The option was offered at no extra cost over the price of the aircraft. The manufacturer paired that saving with a second selling point: the brake's service life can reach double the number of landings. The breakdown by version puts the saving at 700 pounds (320 kg) compared with the high-capacity steel brakes on the Next Generation 737-700, 737-800 and 737-900ER. On the Next Generation 737-600 and 737-700 with standard-capacity steel brakes, the saving is 550 pounds (250 kg).

What changes in operation

The braking performance of the carbon brakes is the same as that of the steel brakes. Added to that performance is a significant weight saving that ultimately improves fuel efficiency. The combination of lower weight and greater durability reduces maintenance and overall operating costs.