Boom Supersonic’s test jet, XB-1, has made history by breaking the Mach 1 sound barrier for the first time. This groundbreaking flight, conducted from California’s Mojave Air and Space Port, marks the first time a civilian aircraft has achieved supersonic speeds over U.S. soil.
Key Highlights of the Historic Flight
The flight, piloted by chief test pilot Tristan “Geppetto” Brandenburg, reached Mach 1 speed at an altitude of 35,000 feet (10,668 meters) within 11.5 minutes. During the test, the jet achieved supersonic speeds two additional times at 17 and 22 minutes into the flight, showcasing its performance capabilities.
The flight lasted approximately 30 minutes, with the jet safely landing using its specially designed landing gear.
Significance of the Supersonic Flight
According to Boom Supersonic advisor and former chief engineer Greg Krauland, “This technical milestone is a major step forward in making commercial supersonic travel a reality.”
The success of the XB-1 jet lays the groundwork for Boom Supersonic’s upcoming project, Overture, a supersonic passenger aircraft designed to carry 64-80 passengers at speeds surpassing those of the Concorde, which last flew in 2003.
Cutting-Edge Technology in Action
The test flight was closely monitored by Dassault Mirage F-1 and Northrop T-38 Talon fighter jets. Additionally, the flight was live-streamed using SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet.
Chief flight test engineer Nick Sherica stated, “Achieving broadband speeds at 31,000 feet and 0.8 Mach was incredible. It significantly enhanced our testing experience and efficiency.”
Overture Aircraft and the Future of Supersonic Travel
Colorado-based Boom Supersonic has already secured over 100 orders for the Overture from major airlines worldwide. With the ability to reduce flight times by half, the Overture aims to redefine air travel and usher in a new era of supersonic passenger flights.
This historic test flight represents a significant leap toward restoring supersonic travel and achieving groundbreaking advancements in aviation.