Up to Speed: March

New Noise Standards Clear the Way for Supersonic

As regulations continue to evolve, we’re witnessing the exciting development of a new era of faster flight.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) recently adopted new global noise standards for supersonic aircraft—a significant milestone in the return of supersonic travel. ICAO’s Committee on Aviation Environmental Protection (CAEP), which includes 33 member countries, recommended new takeoff and landing noise standards that take into account advanced noise reduction technology and procedures.

Ultimately, the standards will ensure that people on the ground aren’t disturbed by noise from Overture.

During takeoff and landing, Overture will operate with noise levels comparable to today’s subsonic long-haul planes. Unlike Concorde, Overture will take off without afterburners, which were the primary source of Concorde’s loud departures.

Testing Shark-Inspired Material on XB-1

*Did you notice anything different about XB-1 during Test Flights 8 through 13?*

Aircraft fleets worldwide may one day benefit from reduced drag—thanks to a new material inspired by sharks, developed by MicroTau, and tested on XB-1.

During the final six test flights of the XB-1 program, Boom tested the durability of the material, which aims to reduce drag, fuel consumption, and operating costs. The tests were conducted in collaboration with the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), the Department of Defense organization focused on accelerating the adoption of commercial and dual-use technology, and the Air Force Operational Energy Office (SAF/IEN), the Air Force’s office dedicated to increased operational capability through efficient use of energy.

Since MicroTau’s previous tests were conducted only on subsonic aircraft, it was essential to validate their findings on XB-1 at transonic and supersonic speeds. The teams reported that the tests resulted in no macroscopic degradation, nor any lifting of the film from XB-1’s surface despite the extreme conditions—as perfect a result as they could have asked for.

There’s fascinating science behind the material, too. It’s inspired by the riblets—the tiny, tooth-like scales—found on shark skin.

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From Coupons to Supersonic Jets

LA’s Upfront Summit saw Brad Gerstner of Altimeter Capital interviewing Boom Founder and CEO Blake Scholl about his startup journey, Overture’s timeline, and America’s potential renaissance of supersonic flight.

Boom Goes Supersonic, with Ashlee Vance Along for the Ride

In January, XB-1 went supersonic for the first time and reporter Ashlee Vance joined us behind the scenes. Here’s an in-depth look at what it takes to make aviation history.