London To New York In Just 3.5 Hours ‘Son Of Concorde’ Jet That Smashes High Speed Test

The XB-1 by Boom Technology has reached a new speed milestone. This jet, nicknamed the “Son of Concorde,” offers hope for a revival of supersonic travel. The jet could potentially reduce the travel time between London and New York to just 3.5 hours. This journey currently takes about eight hours, making the XB-1 a game-changer for long-haul flights. The aircraft completed its first of 10 planned test flights in March 2024. It moves closer to realizing a faster future for air travel.

Overcoming Concorde’s Challenges: Efficiency and Noise Reduction

Supersonic travel has been dormant since 2003. Concorde was retired due to high operating costs, fuel inefficiency, and disruptive noise levels. The XB-1 aims to address these issues, focusing on improved efficiency and reduced noise. Unlike Concorde, the XB-1’s design takes into account fuel consumption. It also considers noise concerns. This makes it a modern contender in high-speed air travel.

Record-Breaking Test Flights: Achieving New Speed and Altitude

On November 5, Boom Technology announced that the XB-1 reached a top speed of Mach 0.81, equivalent to around 620 mph, at an altitude of 23,015 feet. This is a significant step forward, though still below Concorde’s top speeds of 1,350 mph. The recent test focused on “flutter envelope expansion.” It also examined “cockpit pressure testing.” These tests ensured that the aircraft can safely operate at higher speeds and altitudes. According to test pilot Tristan “Geppetto” Brandenberg, the experience of flying the XB-1 has been “fantastic.” The team is optimistic about reaching the next goal of 30,000 feet for future supersonic testing.

A Supersonic Renaissance: Competitors and Regulatory Changes

Boom Technology is not alone in pursuing supersonic travel. Other aerospace giants like NASA and Lockheed Martin are developing their own high-speed jets. For supersonic travel to fully return, regulatory bodies in the U.S. and U.K. would need to reconsider longstanding bans on supersonic flights over land, which have been in place for decades.

The Future of Supersonic Travel: Faster and More Sustainable Flights

With the XB-1 and other projects in development, Boom Technology is poised to lead a new era of supersonic travel. If successful, the XB-1 could make high-speed international flights faster, more efficient, and quieter. This progress could signal a new beginning for supersonic travel, rekindling the excitement and possibilities of high-speed air travel for a new generation.