Meet the new generation of supersonic passenger planes

The development of a new generation of supersonic passenger planes is an active area of interest for various aerospace companies. These companies aim to create aircraft that can travel faster than the speed of sound while addressing the challenges associated with sonic booms, fuel efficiency, and environmental impact. Here are a few notable examples:

Boom Supersonic: Boom Supersonic, a company based in the United States, is developing the Overture, a supersonic airliner designed to carry passengers at speeds over 2 times the speed of sound (Mach 2.2). The Overture aims to be more fuel-efficient and quieter than previous supersonic aircraft by utilizing advanced aerodynamics and modern engines. 

Aerion Supersonic: Aerion Supersonic, in partnership with Boeing, is working on the AS2, a supersonic business jet. The AS2 aims to fly at speeds up to Mach 1.4, with a focus on fuel efficiency and minimizing noise. The company plans to integrate innovative technologies, including a proprietary "boomless cruise" design to minimize the sonic boom's impact on the ground. Aerion Supersonic is targeting a launch date in 2027.

Spike Aerospace: Spike Aerospace is developing the Spike S-512, a supersonic business jet. The S-512 is designed to cruise at speeds of Mach 1.6, and it incorporates various advancements to reduce noise levels and improve fuel efficiency. The company aims to offer luxurious and fast travel for business and VIP passengers. Spike Aerospace is targeting a launch date in 2028.

NASA's Low-Boom Flight Demonstrator: As mentioned earlier, NASA is actively involved in the development of supersonic technologies. The agency is working on the X-59 QueSST as part of its Low-Boom Flight Demonstrator program. While not a passenger plane itself, the data and insights gathered from the X-59 will help inform future supersonic aircraft designs by addressing sonic boom concerns.

Hermeus: Hermeus is developing a supersonic aircraft that can travel at Mach 5 (over 3,800 miles per hour), which would enable travel from New York to London in just 90 minutes. The aircraft is designed to carry up to 20 passengers and have a range of 4,600 nautical miles. Hermeus is targeting a launch date in 2025.

It's important to note that the development and certification of supersonic aircraft involves significant technological, regulatory, and economic challenges. Ensuring safety, meeting noise restrictions, achieving fuel efficiency, and addressing environmental impacts are among the key considerations for the successful adoption of supersonic travel. These new generation supersonic passenger planes aim to overcome these challenges and offer faster and more efficient air travel options in the future.