In a remarkable leap forward in aviation history, Boom Supersonic has reached major milestones in its mission to build the world’s first independently developed supersonic jet called XB-1.
In early 2023, XB-1 embarked on a significant journey, transitioning from company’s Centennial, Colorado, hangar to the renowned Mojave Air & Space Port in California’s Mojave desert. This relocation marked the beginning of an intensive phase of preparations for flight, during which the aircraft has undergone rigorous ground testing, including recent taxi tests that showcased its prowess.
“The recent progress made towards XB-1’s first flight reflects the team’s collective efforts to build and safely fly the world’s first independently developed supersonic jet,” said Blake Scholl, Boom Supersonic’s founder and CEO.
XB-1 Development and Features
- XB-1’s revolutionary design boasts a carbon composite and titanium fuselage spanning 71 feet.
- Its modified delta wing enables secure takeoff and landing as well as supersonic speeds.
- Three General Electric J85 engines power the aircraft, collectively generating a maximum thrust of 12,300 pounds of force.
Boom Supersonic is the pioneering company behind the world’s fastest airliner named Overture. This sustainable supersonic airliner is designed to fly at Mach 1.7 or twice the speed of current airliners, while being powered by 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), paving the way for a more environmentally conscious future in aviation.
Airworthiness certificate and FAA’s vote of confidence
The momentum continues to build as XB-1 secured an experimental airworthiness certificate from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) following a detailed inspection of the aircraft.
Further flight authorizations have been granted, allowing Chief Test Pilot Bill “Doc” Shoemaker and test pilot Tristan “Gepetto” Brandenburg to fly the aircraft. Moreover, letters of agreement with airspace authorities are sought to get the green light for flights over the expansive Mojave desert airspace.
The stage is set for XB-1’s inaugural flight in the same airspace that witnessed the historic achievements of Captain Charles ‘Chuck’ Yeager breaking the sound barrier in Bell X- and the Mach 3+ Strategic Reconnaissance SR-71 Blackbird.
“It’s fitting that XB-1 is now progressing toward first flight at the Mojave Air & Space Port, home to more than 50 first flights and other significant aviation events,” said Bill, the chief test pilot for Boom Supersonic. “I’m looking forward to flying XB-1 here, building on the achievements of other talented engineers and pilots who inspire us every day to make supersonic travel mainstream.”
Safety remains paramount as XB-1 advances toward its monumental flight. Boom’s test pilots have completed hundreds of hours in the simulator for aircraft evaluation, operations development, training, and human factors assessments. The test pilots have also honed their skills in the T-38 trainer aircraft, which will also serve as the chase plane for all of XB-1’s flight tests.
