On October 7, 2024, the Boom XB-1 supersonic jet demonstrator made its fifth test flight from Mojave Air Force Base, setting several new records in the process. Boom XB-1 is a platform for testing the systems of the future Overture aircraft, which is one third the size of the final version. The ultimate goal of the project is the return of commercial supersonic civil aviation, which ceased to exist 20 years ago.
The prototype is in the air. Image source: Boom
The Supersonic XB-1 prototype was cleared for test flights in the spring of 2024. The program provides for 20 flights at subsonic speed, the fifth of which the aircraft completed recently. In the air, the XB-1 with a test pilot accelerated to a new speed ceiling – 791 km/h. A record for lift height was also set, amounting to 5425 m. During the 50-minute flight, the aircraft was artificially introduced into vibration mode, so that when supersonic speeds were reached, the insufficient strength of the hull would not come as a surprise.
The ability of the future supersonic aircraft Boom Overture for 60–80 passengers to feel confident at subsonic speeds will solve two problems of supersonic civil aviation – the sound of thunder when breaking the sound barrier, which is unacceptable for flights over populated areas, as well as the need for ultra-long runways. At cruising speed the aircraft will accelerate to Mach 1.7.
Artistic representation of the Boom Overture supersonic aircraft
Let us add that testing the Supersonic XB-1 is actually a test of the airframe. The prototype is equipped with a standard or slightly modified GE J85-15 turbojet engine. The company is developing its own engine for Overture, a difficult task even for industry giants. Therefore, the future of the project is still in question, although we must give it its due – it is developing and following the plan.