Concorde—history’s only viable supersonic airliner—was retired in 2003. Since then, no manufacturer has managed to replicate its success.
But that could soon change.
X-59 Debut Could Launch New Era for Commercial Aviation
NASA and Lockheed Martin’s quiet, supersonic research aircraft makes its inaugural flight.
Key Takeaways:
- NASA and Lockheed Martin's X-59 supersonic research aircraft made its debut flight, designed to eliminate disruptive sonic booms and produce quieter "sonic thumps."
- The X-59 incorporates unique design features, such as an elongated nose and an external vision system, all engineered to reduce noise during supersonic flight.
- The data collected from the X-59's flights, including community noise perception tests, aims to convince the FAA to reverse its 1973 ban on commercial supersonic flight over land.
Key takeaways sponsored by Aviator Pro | Start Your Training ->
See a mistake? Contact us.
