Differences between Classics and NGs

Going through my archives, I found a couple of 737 diversion pictures. They were Southwest 737s. I ended up getting both -300s and -700s. Upon closer examination, I found some details that would help spotters determine whether the airplane is a classic or a NG.

1. Fleets: Obviously, If you see a Continental (United) 737, it's going to be a NG. If it's a US airways bird, it's going to be a classic.

2. Winglets: All 737 classics which have the 2 degree drooped flap can't have winglets. This is all of the B734s. if it's not stubby and has no winglets (and it isn't an oddball Air China bird), then it's a 737-400.

3. Static Ports: The 737NGs have a large unpainted plate, as N405WN demonstrates,

and N654SW lacks.

The best way to figure these out is the static port, if you're up close. If not, hope you know your fleets!

Happy Spotting (And Identification!)