What percentage of drag reduction can winglets provide on a 737-800?

Winglets are an aerodynamic feature designed to reduce drag caused by vortices that form at the tips of wings during flight. On a Boeing 737-800, the installation of winglets can lead to a significant reduction in drag, improving the aircraft's fuel efficiency.

The correct choice reflects that winglets can reduce drag by approximately 5% to 7%. More commonly, studies and aerodynamic analyses indicate that the drag reduction achieved with winglets on a 737-800 typically falls around the 5% to 7% range. This reduction is beneficial for airlines as it translates into lower fuel consumption, reduced emissions, and overall operational cost savings.

The percentage of drag reduction is crucial for airline operators in optimizing performance and economics. By enhancing lift-to-drag ratios, winglets enable the aircraft to operate more efficiently, making them an essential design feature in modern commercial aircraft.