Boom Supersonic’s XB-1, the world’s first independently developed supersonic jet, has successfully completed its inaugural flight at the Mojave Air & Space Port in Mojave, California. The XB-1 is a test vehicle for building Overture, Boom’s supersonic airliner, which could one day carry up to 80 passengers on commercial flights at Mach 1.7.
The XB-1 met all of its test objectives during its first flight, achieving an altitude of 7,120 feet and speeds up to 238 knots (273 mph). The flight was monitored by a T-38 chase aircraft, which is standard procedure for maiden flights of new aircraft to observe handling and verify altitude, airspeed, and airworthiness during flight.
The successful flight of the XB-1 marks a significant milestone in Boom’s mission to revive supersonic travel. The experience gained from this achievement will be invaluable in the development of Overture, paving the way for the return of mainstream supersonic travel.
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