Long after the Concorde ceased operations, commercial companies are now developing new supersonic passenger aircraft models.
A supersonic aircraft can fly faster than the speed of sound (Mach 1 or 1,235 km/h). As of 2024, only two commercial supersonic aircraft have been operational, both of which are now retired (the Concorde and the Tupolev Tu-144). Safety concerns and the challenge surrounding sonic booms have made the feasibility of commercial supersonic passenger aircraft extremely difficult. However, an increasing number of supersonic aircraft are currently in development, led by Boom, according to Simple Flying.
Boeing 2707
Boeing, the US-based company, once had its own supersonic passenger aircraft project in the 1960s, known as the Boeing 2707. The Boeing 2707 was America’s response to Europe’s Concorde, aiming to be larger and faster than the Concorde.
The design of the Boeing 2707 allowed for 250 – 300 passengers. According to Boeing, the aircraft had a cruising speed of 3,334 km/h at an altitude of over 18,288 meters. The project was continuously plagued by cost overruns and a lack of clear market (despite 26 airlines ordering 122 aircraft). Ultimately, the project was canceled in 1971 before any prototypes were completed.
Concorde
The Concorde is perhaps the most famous supersonic passenger jet. A joint project between France’s Sud Aviation and Britain’s British Aircraft Corporation, the Concorde became a symbol of aviation prowess for both countries. The idea for the Concorde began in 1954. The maiden flight of the aircraft took place in 1969 in France. The vehicle could carry up to 100 passengers at a speed of 2,519 km/h.
At the time, the manufacturers predicted a need for around 350 aircraft, but ultimately, the only customers were two airlines, British Airways and Air France, with only 20 aircraft produced. The lack of routes (limited to transatlantic flights) due to the ban on sonic booms over land was a contributing factor. However, according to the National Air and Space Museum, the Concorde flew for 17,824 hours over 25 years, carrying several thousand passengers across the Atlantic.
Tupolev Tu-144
The Soviet Union once hastily developed its own commercial supersonic aircraft to compete with the West, called the Tupolev Tu-144, with a capacity of 150 passengers. The Tu-144 made its first flight just months before the Concorde of Britain and France. However, the Tu-144 was even less successful commercially than the Concorde. Only 16 aircraft were produced, completing 102 commercial flights, including 55 passenger flights at a speed of 2,470 km/h.
The Tu-144 had a rocky start when the first Tu-144S crashed at the Paris Air Show in 1973. The vehicle began commercial passenger flights in 1977, but another accident in 1978 marked the end of the Tu-144. The aircraft ceased passenger operations and transitioned to cargo transport until it ceased operation in 1983. The vehicle was used for training in the Soviet space program and made its final flight in 1999.
Boom Overture
The era of supersonic flight may make a comeback with the development of the Boom Overture. According to Boom, this aircraft is slower and smaller than previous supersonic passenger aircraft, with a cruising speed of 2,100 km/h and the capacity to carry 64 – 80 passengers, depending on the configuration. The company claims there are over 600 profitable routes. United Airlines has also announced plans to purchase 15 Boom Overture passenger aircraft, with the possibility of ordering an additional 35 aircraft.
2024 will mark the completion of the final assembly line for the Boom Overture. The aircraft will begin passenger service in 2029 and will use 100% sustainable aviation fuel.
Spike Diplomat Supersonic Business Jet
The Spike Diplomat Supersonic Business Jet is another supersonic passenger jet under development. What sets this aircraft apart from the others is that it is a supersonic business jet. Spike is designed for long-haul flights for private clients willing to pay to shorten flight times by over 50%.
If built, the aircraft will fly at a speed of 1,976 km/h, faster than any civilian jetliner, and will carry 12 – 18 passengers. The aircraft will feature no windows in the passenger cabin. Instead, it will incorporate cameras providing external views. The interior will be luxurious with spacious accommodations for a select few passengers.