The 737-400X became the 737-800 but is significantly longer at 39.4m (129ft 6in) and seats up to 189. The project was launched on 5 September 1994, with commitments for over 40 of these aircraft by early 1997 when first delivery occurred in April 1998 – this will be followed closely by an additional 49 orders from Hapag Lloyd which has a huge backlog ensuring production until 2012! There are significant differences between it and its predecessor including fuselage plugs 3m forward (2.84 m aft), engine thrust increased to 26,400Lbs., addition of wing exits similar to that found on the Boeing 747 or 400 series (-700 model).