Register

Rolls-Royce Will No Longer Power Boom’s Supersonic Airliner

Boom Supersonic will need to secure a new engine partner to power its Overture Supersonic jetliner after Rolls-Royce.

Boom will now look to other engine manufacturers, such as GE Aviation (NYSE: GE), Pratt & Whitney (NYSE: RTX), and Safran, which have supersonic propulsion programs. [Courtesy: Boom Supersonic]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Rolls-Royce has exited its partnership with Boom Supersonic, ceasing engine development for the Overture jet, stating that commercial supersonic aviation is not a present business priority.
  • Boom Supersonic must now secure a new engine partner to develop a propulsion system for the Overture, which will need to meet updated design requirements for noise reduction and 100% sustainable aviation fuel compatibility.
  • This unexpected withdrawal could potentially delay Boom's ambitious timeline to roll out the Overture by 2025 and begin commercial service by 2029, despite having existing commitments from airlines like American and United.
See a mistake? Contact us.

Boom Supersonic will need to secure a new powerplant partner to make its planned Overture jet fly faster than the speed of sound. Engine manufacturer Rolls-Royce exited its contract with the commercial airline manufacturer earlier this week. 

Despite announcing in 2020 that the two would work together to identify a propulsion system that would fit the airframe of Boom’s Overture design, Rolls-Royce backed out of the project after delivering a series of design concepts. Bloomberg reports that the engine maker decided that the commercial aviation supersonic market was not a present business priority. 

Michael Wildes

Michael Wildes holds a master’s degree in Logistics & Supply Chain Management, and a bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Science, both from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Previously, he worked at the university’s flight department as a Flight Check Airman, Assistant Training Manager, and Quality Assurance Mentor. He holds MEI, CFI & CFII ratings. Follow Michael on Twitter @Captainwildes.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE