Boom Supersonic is hosting a virtual rollout event for its supersonic demonstrator, the XB-1, on October 7, marking a significant step toward its plans to develop a Mach 2.2 airliner. Powered by three GE J85-15 engines, the XB-1 is a one-third-scale demonstrator that will be used to pave the way for its planned 55-passenger Overture supersonic airliner. XB-1 testing will be used to demonstrate technologies for the Overture, such as carbon fiber composite construction, computer-optimized high-efficiency aerodynamics, and supersonic propulsion systems.

The announced rollout is the culmination of years of research, including wind tunnel and structural testing, and hundreds of simulations, Boom said. Plans call for ground tests later this year and flight trials beginning in 2021.

Despite the difficulties involved with development in the Covid-19 environment, Boom continues to make progress on the demonstrator as major structures come together. These include the recent completion of the vertical stabilizer, assembly of the aft fuselage, and attachment of the XB-1’s ogival delta wing to the forward fuselage.

“Our experiences in the Covid-19 pandemic underscore for all of us the fundamental human need for personal connection," said Boom founder and CEO Blake Scholl. "Faster travel enables us to experience the world’s people, cultures, and places, and XB-1 is the first step in bringing supersonic back to the world.”