The Boom Supersonic team celebrated a milestone achievement with the successful second flight of their supersonic demonstrator aircraft, the XB-1. Occurring at the Mojave Air & Space Port in California, this flight marked an essential step in Boom's ambitious journey towards reviving commercial supersonic travel, reminiscent of the legendary Concorde. The aircraft reached an altitude of 10,400 feet and speeds of 232 knots (277 mph), demonstrating remarkable aerodynamic capabilities. This flight offered crucial insights, as it was instrumental in testing the full retraction and extension of the landing gear and activating the digital stability augmentation system—milestones signaling significant progress from its inaugural flight earlier this year.
Piloted by Boom Chief Test Pilot Tristan “Geppetto” Brandenburg, who transitioned from flying the chase plane in the first mission to controlling the XB-1 today, the flight underscored significant advances. The innovative roll damper was deployed for the first time during the flight, improving the aircraft's handling based on insights gained during the initial test flight. This groundbreaking system is part of the larger flight envelope expansion plan, which also included the application of tufting on the right wing to analyze airflow dynamics. These tests verified the aerodynamic characteristics vital for XB-1’s continued journey toward supersonic capabilities.
The successful completion of these test objectives sets the stage for more extensive testing at supersonic speeds planned for later this year. As Boom moves forward, they have already received a groundbreaking Special Flight Authorization from the FAA to exceed Mach 1. This milestone not only propels the XB-1 but also accelerates the development of Overture, the next-generation supersonic airliner. Boom's commitment to revitalizing supersonic passenger travel is marked by leveraging state-of-the-art technology. The achievements of XB-1 illuminate the path toward a future where supersonic travel becomes a mainstream reality once again.
📷: BOOM SUPERSONIC
