Boom Supersonic, a Colorado-based company, has achieved a major milestone in its pursuit of supersonic flight. On Monday, August 26, the company’s experimental supersonic aircraft, XB-1, successfully completed its second flight. The flight, which took place from Mojave Air and Space Port in California, lasted approximately 15 minutes. During this time, the XB-1 reached an altitude of 10,400 feet (3,170 meters) and a speed of 277 mph (446 kph).
This flight was particularly significant as it marked the first demonstration of the XB-1’s landing gear retraction and extension. The company also tested a new digital stability augmentation system designed to enhance the aircraft’s handling. These advancements are critical steps in the development of the XB-1, bringing it closer to achieving supersonic speeds, which is expected later this year.
“XB-1 had a fantastic second flight this morning. Initial results indicate we’ve successfully resolved the findings from Flight One and are excited to continue flight testing on the path to supersonic flight,” said Blake Scholl, founder and CEO of Boom Supersonic. “I’m proud of the team. Today’s flight is another step toward the return of supersonic passenger travel.”
The XB-1 program is a crucial part of Boom Supersonic’s larger ambition to revolutionize air travel. The company is developing Overture, a planned supersonic airliner, with the aim of making air travel significantly faster and more efficient. The success of the XB-1 flight serves as a testament to Boom’s commitment to bringing supersonic passenger travel back to reality. The company plans to conduct approximately 10 more test flights before attempting to achieve supersonic speeds. These tests will focus on further refining the aircraft’s performance and capabilities, ensuring a smooth transition to supersonic flight.
