Boom Supersonic, an innovative U.S. company, announced the successful completion of the inaugural test of its XB-1 supersonic aircraft on March 22. This achievement comes after receiving approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in August of the previous year.
The test flight of the XB-1 supersonic aircraft
As reported on the company’s official blog, the test flight was conducted in Mojave, California, with the purpose of validating the performance of its carbon fiber composite materials, state-of-the-art avionics, digitally tuned aerodynamics and advanced supersonic propulsion system, with a view to offering supersonic flights to global travelers in the future.
During this flight, the XB-1 reached an altitude of 2,170 meters and speeds approaching 439 km/h, fulfilling all the goals established for this test, including evaluations of handling capabilities, speed checks and stability analysis.
The XB-1 supersonic aircraft during its test flight. Source: Boom Supersonic.
In addition, Boom Supersonic highlighted the successful validation of several key technologies during flight, such as its augmented reality vision system that enhances visibility through cameras, digital optimization of its aerodynamics that ensures efficiency and safety, extensive use of carbon fiber for a lightweight and strong structure, and innovative supersonic inlets that optimize engine performance from takeoff to supersonic flight.
Boom Supersonic’s plans
After this initial flight, Boom Supersonic plans to gradually expand the scope of testing to verify the XB-1′s performance and handling capabilities beyond the sound barrier. This step marks an important advance as the development of Overture continues to move forward, backed by an extensive network of suppliers and orders from airlines such as American Airlines, United Airlines and Japan Airlines.
The XB-1, with its carbon and titanium fuselage, has a length of 71 feet (approximately 21.64 meters) and is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and digitally optimized aerodynamics. Capable of reach speeds of Mach 1.7 (around 2,082 km/h) in cruise and powered by three General Electric J85 engines, the aircraft’s wing design ensures safe takeoff and landing as well as supersonic flight, and it is anticipated to have a capacity of between 64 and 80 passengers.
This successful flight of the XB-1 represents a milestone for Boom Supersonic, reaffirming the potential and nearness of a new era of supersonic air travel for the general public. This technological breakthrough promises to significantly reduce travel times and drive the development of more sustainable and efficient aviation, leading the way to a future where faster, greener aircraft will take to the skies.
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Source and photo: 20minutos.es
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