Technological breakthroughs by Boom Supersonic have opened new frontiers in supersonic aviation. This past January, their XB-1 demonstrator aircraft achieved a milestone in supersonic travel by making the first boomless supersonic flight over the continental United States. This milestone marks an important moment for the Colorado-based company. They are at the forefront of developing next-generation supersonic aircraft.
Over the past few years, Boom Supersonic has sold itself as the great white hope of the aviation industry. Nearly a year ago, the company opened an airline factory for its new supersonic boom in Greensboro, North Carolina. This project got a considerable kickstart with more than $100 million in state incentives granted in 2022. In return, the company committed to creating more than 1,700 jobs by 2030. By making this commitment, it demonstrates its commitment to being a proactive partner in accelerating economic development across the entire region.
At the same time, Boom Supersonic is ramping up its creative capabilities. Now the company is building the engine that will power its Overture supersonic airline in San Antonio, Texas. This ambitious undertaking is made possible in part by StandardAero, a long-time leader in aerospace innovation. The new collaboration will focus on making sure the engine fulfills the demanding specifications needed for the challenges of supersonic travel.
The push for supersonic travel is further supported by the introduction of the Supersonic Aviation Modernization Act, commonly referred to as the “Boom” bill. Senator Ted Budd (R-NC), Aviation Subcommittee Chair Troy Nehls (R-TX), and Congresswoman Sharice Davids (D-KS) have introduced new bipartisan legislation. This bill would remove the Federal Aviation Administration’s 52-year prohibition on supersonic flight over U.S. soil. The act would allow supersonic travel as long as no audible sonic boom reaches the ground, addressing longstanding concerns about noise pollution.
North Carolina would be one of most active and supportive states to see this legislation advance. Most importantly, it will have a direct, immediate impact on Boom Supersonic’s ongoing operations in Greensboro. Either way, Texas is keeping a close eye on how things develop with Boom’s new engine production in San Antonio. They see huge economic opportunity in this rapidly expanding sector.
