Analysis: What The Boom XB-1’s Supersonic Flight Authorization Means For Aviation

Boom Supersonic’s XB-1 prototype aircraft has been granted permission by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to fly faster than the speed of sound (Mach 1). As part of this Special Flight Authorization, the manufacturer has been authorized to conduct up to 20 test flights with the XB-1. As a technology demonstrator aircraft, the XB-1 will pave the way for the arrival of Boom Supersonic’s debut supersonic commercial aircraft, the Boom Overture.