Boom's XB-1 supersonic jet approved to break the speed of sound

Boom's supersonic XB-1 test jet has received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval to fly beyond the speed of sound, paving the way for tests later this year in Mojave, California's supersonic corridor.

Following the successful first flight of the XB-1 at subsonic speeds, the FAA authorization allows Boom to conduct tests aimed at breaking the sound barrier. These tests will take place in the Black Mountain Supersonic Corridor in Mojave, CA, and will focus on areas such as fuel consumption, speeds, and flight characteristics.

Boom Supersonic founder and CEO Blake Scholl expressed excitement for the historic first supersonic flight and thanked the FAA for supporting innovation in supersonic travel.

The company plans to conduct 10-20 flights before attempting to break the sound barrier, systematically expanding the flight area to confirm performance and controllability. During the first supersonic flight, test pilot Tristan "Geppetto" Brandenberg will be at the controls.

Despite progress, passenger flights are still in the future. The XB-1 is a scaled-down version of Boom's commercial liner, Overture, which aims to offer "business class" comfort levels and cut travel time significantly. While the company has faced delays and setbacks, it already has orders from airlines like American Airlines and United Airlines for multiple jets.