Boom Supersonic progresses toward Mach 1+ passenger flights

The Boom Supersonic XB-1 paves the way for speed of sound travel

By Mark Reif Published August 29, 2024

Boom Supersonic XB-1 — Boom Supersonic XB-1 Boom Supersonic

On August 26, the Boom Supersonic XB-1 supersonic demonstrator completed its second test flight, moving the company closer to commercial flights at the speed of sound (Mach 1). During the sortie, the experimental plane took off from Mojave Air & Space Port in Mojave, California, and tested various systems before returning.

Boom Supersonic planes could nearly halve flight times

Boom Supersonic Overture — Rendering, Boom Supersonic Overture Boom Supersonic

With the retirement of the Concorde in 2003, commercial aviation lost speed-of-sound air travel. The legendary aircraft, capable of Mach 2 (1,350 mph), could fly from New York to London in only three hours, compared to eight for a regular plane. Boom Supersonic aims to return Mach speeds to the skies, with its Overture airliner. The XB-1 demonstrator is the first step.

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On its recent test flight, the XB-1 climbed to 10,400 ft. and cruised at 277 mph. During the 15-minute mission, the test pilot extended and retracted the landing gear, assessed handling attributes, and used the digital stability augmentation system (roll damper). Additionally, tufting was applied to the right wing to measure airflow and confirm aerodynamics.

Blake Scholl, founder and CEO of Boom Supersonic, said: “XB-1 had a fantastic second flight this morning. 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.”

With two test flights complete, Boom will now expand the XB-1’s flight envelope up to and beyond Mach 1. Subsequent flights will include several test points measuring safe margin to flutter (aeroelastic vibration) boundaries, and performing system checks. Over the course of 10 tests, the plane will move closer and closer to supersonic speeds.

The Overture already has 130 orders, including agreements with United Airlines, American Airlines, and Japan Airlines. It will run on 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and offer net-zero carbon performance. Its cruising speed will be Mach 1.7, and its range will be 4,250 nautical miles.

Mark Reif has a passion for the outdoors and travel, and telling the stories of his experiences. He’s a lifelong…

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How Delta is working toward net-zero emissions by 2050

Delta works toward net-zero emissions by 2050

Delta A330-900

To reach its 2050 goal of achieving net-zero emissions, Delta Air Lines is concentrating on “What We Fly, How We Fly, and The Fuel We Use,” each marked by important metrics over time. Around 90% of Delta’s carbon emissions come from jet fuel, and the company’s looking for innovative ways to decarbonize its operations.

How Delta aims to reach net-zero emissions

Travel

How much is a first-class flight? Here’s the breakdown

This is the true cost of flying first class (and how to save)

First class on an airplane

Have you ever found yourself wondering, how much is a first-class flight? I know I did. Before I had the chance to experience it myself, first class always felt like a luxury that was just out of my reach. But now that I know what it actually costs, I’m here to share what I’ve learned about the true price of flying first class. So, here’s how much a first-class flight really costs.
Factors that affect the price of first-class flights

First things first, the price of a first-class ticket can vary depending on the different factors at play. But there is a general range, so let’s break it down a bit.
The airline and route
The cost of a first-class ticket depends mainly on the airline and the route you’re taking. For example, on a popular international route like New York to London, a first-class ticket can range from $4,000 to $7,000, sometimes even more. If you’re flying from Los Angeles to Tokyo, that price tag can jump to $14,000 or more. These prices fluctuate based on the airline’s pricing structure and the demand for seats on that specific flight.
The flight duration
Another big factor is the length of the flight. The longer the journey, the more expensive the first-class ticket tends to be. A shorter domestic flight might cost somewhere in the range of $1,000 for a first-class seat, while international flights that can last 10 hours or more could easily push into the $8,000-$15,000 range for first class.
When you book your flight
Timing also plays a big role in the cost of your first-class ticket. The Luxury Travel Expert recommends booking your flight as early as possible to secure the best deals. So if you book months in advance, you’ll probably find better fares. However, airlines do occasionally offer last-minute discounts or promotions to fill seats, although this isn’t always the case. It’s always best to plan ahead, but keep an eye out for any deals, especially during off-peak travel seasons.
The time of year
Airline ticket prices also vary depending on the time of year. Traveling during peak times, like the holidays or summer vacation, will typically result in higher prices. Airlines usually raise prices to accommodate the increased demand during these periods.
What do you get for the price of first class?

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Qantas adds direct flight to this Asian destination

Singapore at night

Qantas has begun nonstop service from Australia’s Northern Territory to Singapore, flying four times weekly aboard a Boeing 737-800. The route’s timing provides an easy connection to the airline’s flagship Singapore to London flight on an Airbus A380. The first flight departed Darwin on March 30, providing international travelers better access to the Northern Territory.

Improved travel between Australia, Singapore, and Europe