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Boom Supersonic XB-1 Completes Successful Second Test Flight

Boom Supersonic’s prototype, XB-1, advances toward supersonic flight with its second successful test flight on Aug. 26.

Amelia Walsh

Updated Aug 29, 2024 4:36 PM EDT

Boom Supersonic’s XB-1 prototype aircraft successfully completed its second test flight at the Mojave Air & Space Port in Mojave, California, on Aug. 26.

Boom’s XB-1 supersonic demonstrator aircraft is designed to provide the foundation for the design and development of its supersonic airliner, dubbed Overture. During its second test flight, XB-1 flew for about 15 minutes, reaching an altitude of 10,400 feet and speeds of 232 knots.

During this flight, the XB-1 successfully retracted and extended its landing gear for the first time. The test also focused on assessing the aircraft’s handling qualities and activating a new digital stability augmentation system, or roll damper. This system was introduced to improve handling based on insights from the initial flight in March.

“XB-1 had a fantastic second flight this morning. Initial results indicate we’ve successfully resolved the findings from Flight One and are excited to continue flight testing on the path to supersonic flight,” said Boom Supersonic founder and CEO Blake Scholl in a recent press release. “I’m proud of the team. Today’s flight is another step toward the return of supersonic passenger travel.”

Following its first flight in March, Boom received the FAA’s Special Flight Authorization to exceed Mach 1. The company plans to increase the frequency of test flights and aims to achieve supersonic flight by the end of the year.