Boom Supersonic’s XB-1 Achieves Record Speed in Progress Toward Mach 1
Boom Supersonic’s XB-1 ‘Baby Boom’ demonstrator aircraft has reached a significant milestone, recording its fastest speed yet during its fourth test flight. This achievement brings the company closer to its goal of achieving supersonic flight with its full-size Overture aircraft.
On September 21, 2024, the XB-1 reached a top speed of Mach 0.617, more than halfway to breaking the sound barrier. This record-setting flight occurred just eight days after the aircraft’s third test flight, during which Boom Supersonic implemented new technology for the first time.
A spokesperson for Boom Supersonic explained that this latest flight marked the first use of the flutter excitation system (FES) in an actual flight scenario. “The FES is a vibration device that we can activate to intentionally reach structural vibration modes before encountering them naturally in flight,” they said. This innovative technology aims to enhance safety and performance during supersonic operations.
During the flight, Boom Supersonic utilized a wind-up turn maneuver, subjecting the XB-1 to a maximum of 2.78g (or g-force). “When we achieve supersonic flight, XB-1 will need to execute a turn at 2g to align for the supersonic run. Our team is testing the aircraft with an added margin for increased safety,” the spokesperson noted.
Chief Test Pilot Tristan Brandenburg piloted the XB-1 during this test, reaching a maximum altitude of 16,150 feet and logging a total flight time of 48 minutes. Footage of the XB-1 in action was captured by Boom Supersonic’s T-38 chase plane, which monitors the aircraft during its tests.
Brandenburg, who has previously flown the second and third flights of the XB-1, is also set to pilot the aircraft’s inaugural supersonic flight. Additionally, Boom Supersonic conducted successful landing gear tests by retracting the system at a maximum speed of 225 knots. Future test flights will include retracting the landing gear immediately after takeoff.
The XB-1 is a critical demonstrator for Boom Supersonic’s forthcoming Overture airliner, designed to carry between 64 and 80 passengers over distances of up to 4,250 nautical miles (7,867 kilometers) at a cruising speed of Mach 1.7.
Several major airlines, including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Japan Airlines, have already placed pre-orders for the Overture, which will be powered by up to 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This commitment to sustainability aligns with the industry’s broader efforts to reduce environmental impact while enhancing travel speed and comfort.
As Boom Supersonic continues its flight testing and data collection with the XB-1, the company remains on track to revolutionize air travel, offering passengers a new era of supersonic flights that combine speed with sustainable practices. The successful flight of the XB-1 signals a promising future for the Overture and the potential to reshape the aviation landscape.