$800K ‘Boom Prize’ Challenges Amateurs to Build Supersonic Airplanes

Nearly 80 years after Chuck Yeager first broke the sound barrier, new competition aims to unearth the next advancement in high-speed flight.

Jack Daleo

Friday, July 17, 2026 at 10:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Boom Supersonic’s XB-1 demonstrator conducted 13 test flights in early 2025 and, according to the company, produced sonic booms that were inaudible at ground level. [Credit: Boom Supersonic]

Key Takeaways:

Boom Supersonic has launched the "Boom Prize," offering $800,000 ($750k cash, $50k stock) for the first amateur-built, air-breathing, radio-controlled aircraft to repeatedly exceed the speed of sound.
The challenge requires two successful supersonic flights (Mach 1+ for 5+ seconds in level flight) within a single day, using specific air-breathing propulsion and weighing under 55 lbs.
Aimed at individuals and hobbyists by the end of 2030, the prize seeks to inspire innovation in supersonic flight, with participants responsible for all regulatory compliance.

See a mistake? Contact us.

Famed U.S. Air Force aviator Chuck Yeager was the first to exceed the speed of sound in 1947, flying a rocket-powered Bell X-1. Nearly 80 years later, $800,000 in prize money is up for grabs for the first to break the sound barrier with an amateur-built, air-breathing aircraft.

Boom Supersonic CEO Blake Scholl last week announced the “Boom Prize,” challenging armchair engineers to build a radio-controlled airplane that exceeds Mach 1. The winner will receive $750,000 in prize money and $50,000 in the company’s stock. Judges include NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman and popular science YouTuber Scott Manley.