Boom Supersonic completed the second test flight of its XB-1 supersonic demonstrator on August 26, 2024. This achievement brings the company closer to achieving its goal of developing a commercially viable supersonic airliner, the Overture.
The XB-1 prototype, piloted by Chief Test Pilot Tristan Brandenburg, embarked on a 15-minute flight at Mojave, California. This test is a key part of the ongoing program to expand the performance envelope of the XB-1 in preparation for its first supersonic flight. The aircraft achieved an altitude of 10,400 feet (3,170 meters) and reached speeds of 232 knots (277 mph, 445 km/h) during the flight.
These tests are designed to ensure the aircraft’s capabilities and safety, especially as it approaches the transonic and supersonic speeds that will be pivotal in future flights. The August 26th flight involved several critical checks, including the first retraction and extension of the landing gear, evaluation of the aircraft’s handling, and activation of a new digital stability augmentation system designed to assist with roll damping under stall conditions.
Additionally, the right-wing was fitted with tufting to monitor airflow over the wing, providing vital data on the aircraft’s aerodynamic performance.
The XB-1 serves as a key testbed for Boom’s Overture supersonic airliner, which aims to succeed the Concorde by offering economically viable supersonic travel with a design that mitigates the infamous sonic boom into a softer “sonic thump.” This approach could allow the Overture to operate over land, including routes in the United States. The airliner is expected to feature state-of-the-art technologies, including digitally optimized aerodynamics, carbon composite materials, advanced engine intakes, and an augmented reality vision system to enhance takeoff and landing visibility.
Boom Supersonic has planned around 10 more test flights for the XB-1, each progressively increasing in altitude and speed. These flights will include comprehensive checks of all systems to ensure the aircraft’s safety and performance as it ventures into the transonic and supersonic realms. Supersonic testing will be conducted in the Black Mountain Supersonic Corridor at Edwards Air Force Base in California.
“XB-1 had a fantastic second flight this morning,” said Blake Scholl, founder and CEO of Boom Supersonic. “Initial results indicate we’ve successfully resolved the findings from Flight One and are excited to continue flight testing on the path to supersonic flight. I’m proud of the team. Today’s flight is another step toward the return of supersonic passenger travel.”
Source: Boom Supersonic
