Boom Supersonic supersonic aircraft prototype successfully makes its maiden flight

The XB-1 supersonic aircraft prototype made its historic maiden flight from the Mojave Air and Space Port in California.

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During the first test flight, the XB-1 reached a maximum altitude of 7,120 feet (2.2 km) and reached a speed of 273 mph (439 km/h).

The XB-1 serves as a demonstrator for testing materials and aerodynamics prior to the development of the larger commercial supersonic aircraft, the Overture. Boom Supersonic aims to revive supersonic commercial air travel, and plans to reach speeds twice that of conventional jets.

Despite some delays in the schedule, Boom Supersonic confirms its plans and intentions to resume supersonic flights. The company has received orders from airlines such as American Airlines, United Airlines and Japan Airlines for the Overture aircraft.

Following the successful maiden flight of the XB-1, the Boom Supersonic team will focus on expanding the flight range to confirm the aircraft's performance and handling at various speeds. At the same time, Boom Supersonic will continue to develop the new engine, the Symphony medium turbofan engine, which is designed for the Overture aircraft.

Source: Ars Technica