Boom Supersonic has convinced the next big airline in the USA with their supersonic project Overture. American Airlines wants at least 20 of the jets.
The project is sure to attract attention. As Boom Supersonic at the Farnborough Airshow in July unveiled the new design for the Overture supersonic jet, it was the best-attended press conference at the air show. In discussions with the audience afterwards, however, it also became clear that many are skeptical as to whether the comeback of commercial overflights can succeed.
There are different reasons for this. Some listeners were puzzled that Rolls-Royce, the previous engine development partner, was not mentioned much in the new Overture plans. Others found Boom boss Blake Scholl’s announcement that traveling on Overture shouldn’t be much more expensive than business class on a current plane that doesn’t reach the speed of sound to be incomprehensible.
American relies on the speed advantage
Despite the skepticism of the journalists, Boom has convinced established airlines. American Airlines announced Tuesday (August 16) that it had signed an agreement to purchase 20 Overture aircraft with options for an additional 40.
“American Airlines has paid a non-refundable deposit for the first 20 aircraft,” the airline said. Overture will bring a new speed advantage to American’s fleet, the airline said. “Looking ahead, supersonic travel will be an important part of our ability to serve our customers,” said American CFO Derek Kerr.
Auch United Airlines will Overture
However, given the unproven technology, the airline also emphasizes: “The agreement provides that Boom Supersonic must meet standard industry operational, performance and safety requirements, as well as American’s other standard conditions, prior to delivery of Overture.”
In summer 2021 already had United Airlines signed a letter of intent to purchase 15 Overture jets signed. She secured options for 35 more airmen.
Passenger flights planned from 2029
Overture is designed to carry 65 to 80 passengers over water at Mach 1.7—twice as fast as today’s fastest commercial aircraft. A range of 4250 nautical miles or 7870 kilometers is planned. The plane should be able to fly more than 600 routes around the world in half the time. Boom Supersonic wants to develop Overture in such a way that passenger flights can start with it from 2029.
Check out Overture’s new design in the image gallery above.