Boom XB-1 Prototype Marks Key Milestone for Supersonic Passenger Flights

Summary:
Boom Supersonic’s XB-1 prototype has successfully achieved a new speed record and demonstrated high-speed stability, bringing the return of supersonic commercial flights closer. The test flights, which reached speeds of 629 mph (Mach 0.82), also proved the aircraft’s safety and structural integrity. These milestones pave the way for future supersonic tests and the development of the Boom Overture, a commercial aircraft capable of flying at Mach 1.7, cutting travel times dramatically.

Boom Supersonic is one step closer to resurrecting supersonic commercial flights after a successful test flight of its XB-1 prototype, marking a significant milestone in aviation history. On November 5, the XB-1 reached a top speed of 629 mph (Mach 0.82) during its seventh test flight, setting a new speed record for the aircraft. This achievement confirmed the aircraft’s stability at high speeds and its ability to operate safely at an altitude of 23,015 feet (7,015 meters). The following test flight, 11 days later, demonstrated the XB-1’s capability to perform sustained high-speed operations without relying on its stability augmentation system, which is typically used to keep the aircraft stable during flight.

The XB-1 prototype has been in development for eight years, and while its first test flight only lasted 12 minutes, it has since made significant progress. Other recent accomplishments include successful “flutter” tests, proving that the aircraft’s structure can withstand the high-speed vibrations caused by airflow, as well as the first successful use of its landing gear in-flight. The tests are essential for refining the aircraft’s design and for demonstrating the feasibility of using this technology for commercial aviation.

Boom Supersonic aims to complete 10 subsonic flights before beginning supersonic tests in early 2025. These tests will help prepare for the development of the Boom Overture, a proposed supersonic passenger jet capable of reaching Mach 1.7 (1,304 mph or 2,099 km/h), nearly as fast as the Concorde. The Overture could drastically reduce travel time, such as completing a flight from London to New York in just 3.5 hours.

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