Originally Posted by
El10
The 737-900ER can carry 13 more passengers and has approximately the same range as the 737-800 in United Continental's seating configuration.
Unfortunately that range is only "approximately" sufficient for a transcon. Basically it's fill the tanks and hope. Initial level off for a full 900ER is 320-340, if it's winter with bad winds or a distant alternate you're looking at a fuel stop. Never had an issue with the -800s.