Boom Supersonic Breaks the Sound Barrier for the First Time with its XB-1 Demonstrator

A Milestone in Supersonic Flight

It’s been an incredible 10 months since Boom Supersonic’s first subsonic flight of its XB-1 demonstrator aircraft. The company has finally achieved a major milestone: breaking the sound barrier for the first time. During its 12th flight, the XB-1 flew at supersonic speeds three times, reaching a top speed of Mach 1.1 (approximately 844 mph).

A Brief but Significant Flight

The flight, which lasted around 34 minutes, took off from the Mojave Air & Space Port in California. Pilot Tristan Brandenburg flew the aircraft to an altitude of 34,000 feet before hitting supersonic speeds for approximately four minutes. This historic flight is the first time a civil aircraft has gone supersonic, making Boom Supersonic a pioneer in the industry.

A Long Road to Supersonic Flight

The XB-1’s journey to supersonic flight hasn’t been easy. Its first test flight in March 2024 achieved a top speed of just 283 mph. In January 2025, the aircraft reached a top speed of Mach 0.95 and an altitude of 29,481 feet. However, this recent flight marks a significant step forward for Boom Supersonic, paving the way for the development of its larger Overture airliner.

What’s Next for Boom Supersonic?

Although this milestone achievement is a major step forward, there’s still much work to be done before the Overture takes to the skies. The company plans to continue testing and refining its technology, with a goal of reaching supersonic speeds of up to Mach 1.7 (around 1,354 mph) on international flights. As of May 2024, Boom Supersonic has raised over $700 million and has secured deals with major airlines, including United Airlines and American Airlines. With continued innovation and investment, the company is on track to make supersonic flight a reality by 2030.

• The XB-1 demonstrator aircraft is 63 feet long and powered by three General Electric J85-15 turbojet engines.
• Boom Supersonic plans to develop and build the four engines needed to power the larger Overture airliner.
• The company has raised over $700 million and has sold 15 supersonic aircraft to United Airlines and 20 to American Airlines.