BOOM Supersonic XB-1 Breaks the Sound Barrier in Groundbreaking Test Flight
Yesterday, BOOM Supersonic, a pioneering company in the development of supersonic flight technology, successfully broke the sound barrier during a test flight of its experimental aircraft, the XB-1. The milestone achievement marks a significant step forward in the pursuit of faster, more efficient, and more environmentally friendly air travel.
The XB-1, a scaled-up prototype of BOOM’s forthcoming commercial airliner, took to the skies at Edwards Air Force Base in California, reaching speeds of over Mach 1.4 (1,451 mph or 2,335 km/h) as it broke through the sound barrier. This is the first time a privately-funded aircraft has achieved this feat in over 50 years.
During the test flight, the XB-1 demonstrated its ability to rapidly accelerate from Mach 0.8 to Mach 1.4 in just 90 seconds, before slowing down to Mach 1.2 to conduct a series of high-angle-of-attack maneuvers. These tests will help the company gather valuable data to refine the aircraft’s design and performance.
"The XB-1’s successful break of the sound barrier is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team," said Blake Scholl, CEO and founder of BOOM Supersonic. "This achievement marks a significant milestone in our journey to make supersonic flight a reality for commercial airlines and passengers. We’re thrilled to be leading the charge in this exciting field."
The XB-1’s design is focused on reducing the sonic boom associated with supersonic flight, which has been a major obstacle to widespread adoption of supersonic aircraft. By optimizing the aircraft’s shape and size, BOOM has been able to minimize the sonic boom while maintaining high speeds.
The XB-1 is a precursor to BOOM’s commercial airliner, which is expected to enter service in the mid-2020s. The airliner will have the capacity to carry up to 55 passengers and will offer speeds of over Mach 2.2 (2,350 mph or 3,783 km/h), significantly reducing travel times between major cities.
Yesterday’s test flight marks a significant breakthrough in the development of supersonic flight technology and paves the way for the commercialization of this revolutionary technology. BOOM Supersonic’s achievement has the potential to transform the way we travel, making long-haul flights faster, more efficient, and more enjoyable.
About BOOM Supersonic
BOOM Supersonic is a pioneering company that is developing supersonic flight technology to revolutionize air travel. Founded in 2014 by Blake Scholl and Joe Wilding, BOOM is focused on creating commercial airliners that can travel at speeds of over Mach 2.2, reducing travel times between major cities by up to 50%. The company’s mission is to make supersonic flight a reality for commercial airlines and passengers, while minimizing the environmental impact of air travel.
