Rolls-Royce pulls out of Boom’s supersonic jet program

Rolls-Royce is pulling out of Boom’s supersonic jet project, two years after signing a collaboration agreement.

“We’ve completed our contract with Boom and delivered various engineering studies for their Overture supersonic program,” Rolls-Royce said in a statement to AeroTime.

“After careful consideration, Rolls-Royce has determined that the commercial aviation supersonic market is not currently a priority for us and, therefore, will not pursue further work on the program at this time.”

As part of the collaboration agreement, both companies have worked together to identify a propulsion system that would complement Overture’s airframe.

“We are appreciative of Rolls-Royce’s work over the last few years, but it became clear that Rolls’ proposed engine design and legacy business model is not the best option for Overture’s future airline operators or passengers. Later this year, we will announce our selected engine partner and our transformational approach for reliable, cost-effective and sustainable supersonic flight,” Boom outlined in a statement.

In July 2022 during the Farnborough Airshow, founder and CEO Blake Scholl said during a media briefing that the company had “made a lot more progress in propulsion than we’re sharing today”.

AeroTime has asked Boom and Rolls-Royce for comment.

This news comes more than three weeks after American Airlines (A1G) (AAL) signed a purchase contract for up to 20 Boom Supersonic Overture aircraft with an option for an additional 40 jets.

“Looking to the future, supersonic travel will be an important part of our ability to deliver for our customers. We are excited about how Boom will shape the future of travel both for our company and our customers,” American Airlines (A1G) (AAL) chief financial officer Derek Kerr said.