XB-1 Breaks the Sound Barrier Without a Sonic Boom

The aviation industry has taken a bold step forward in the return of supersonic travel. Boom Supersonic’s XB-1 successfully broke the sound barrier three times during its first supersonic flight on January 28, 2025, reaching Mach 1.122 (1,385 km/h)—10% faster than the speed of sound. What makes this milestone even more remarkable? The XB-1 achieved it without producing a sonic boom audible from the ground.

A Revolutionary Approach to Supersonic Flight

Boom Supersonic leveraged a physics phenomenon known as Mach cutoff, where sound waves are deflected upwards at high altitudes, preventing them from reaching the ground. This innovation could allow for the return of supersonic air travel without the disruptive noise that contributed to the Concorde’s retirement in 2003.

“This confirms what we’ve long believed: supersonic travel can be affordable, sustainable, and friendly to those onboard and on the ground.” – Blake Scholl, CEO of Boom Supersonic

Key Highlights from XB-1’s Testing Program

• 12 test flights completed since March 2024.
• January 28 milestone: First successful supersonic flight without a ground-level sonic boom.
• February 10 flight: Further confirmation that XB-1 can achieve supersonic speeds quietly.
• Future implications: Data gathered will support the development of Overture, Boom’s planned commercial supersonic airliner.

Image: “Boom Aero Status” Source: https://x.com/boomaero/status/1889099354515857520 Retrieved on: 02/10/2025

The Future of Supersonic Commercial Flights

With orders already placed by American Airlines, United Airlines, and Japan Airlines, Boom aims to introduce its first commercial supersonic aircraft by the end of the decade. The upcoming Overture is expected to:

• Accommodate 64-80 passengers
• Reach speeds of Mach 1.7—nearly twice as fast as today’s commercial jets
• Reduce transatlantic flight times—New York to London in under four hours

Aviation’s Supersonic Renaissance

While Mach-cutoff flights burn more fuel than conventional supersonic speeds, this technology opens new doors for business aviation and specialized supersonic routes. The return of supersonic travel is no longer a question of “if”—but “when”.

YGAero celebrates these advancements and looks forward to witnessing the next chapter in aviation history! 🚀