MOJAVE, Calif. — Boom Supersonic’s XB-1 jet achieved a significant milestone during its fifth test flight on October 7, 2024, setting new speed and altitude records as part of its ongoing development program. The XB-1, a one-third-scale prototype of Boom’s planned Overture commercial jet, is designed to bring supersonic passenger travel back to the skies. Chief test pilot Tristan “Geppetto” Brandenburg led the record-setting flight from Mojave Air & Space Port, reaching a maximum speed of Mach 0.69 and an altitude of 17,800 feet.
Powered by GE J85-15 turbojet engines, the XB-1 maintained a flight duration of 50 minutes, achieving its highest speed and altitude to date. The flight incorporated the use of the aircraft’s flutter excitation system (FES), which had been recently repaired and reinstalled. The FES is essential for gathering data at the Mach 0.6 flutter point, crucial as the aircraft continues to push towards transonic speeds.
Beyond speed and altitude testing, the flight assessed the XB-1’s basic handling at speeds ranging from 225 to 300 knots. The test also featured a maneuver known as a “wind-up turn,” where the aircraft experienced forces of up to 2.78g, the highest g-force expected during the XB-1’s testing phase. Boom has emphasized the importance of these tests for future supersonic flights, as the XB-1 will need to execute a 2g turn in preparation for supersonic runs.
“As we advance toward supersonic flight, ensuring the aircraft can handle these conditions with an extra margin of safety is critical,” Boom representatives stated in a post-test blog update.
The XB-1’s continued testing marks another step forward in Boom’s ambitious plans to reintroduce commercial supersonic travel, with the Overture aircraft expected to be capable of flying passengers at over twice the speed of current commercial jets.
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