Boom Supersonic, renowned for developing the world’s fastest airliner, has announced significant advancements in its Overture airliner and Symphony engine programmes at the Farnborough International Airshow. The company is set to revolutionise air travel with a new flight deck and progress on its supersonic engine, promising an accelerated path towards commercial supersonic flight.
Revolutionising the Cockpit
Boom Supersonic is redefining cockpit design with its all-new flight deck for the Overture airliner, integrating cutting-edge technology to enhance pilot safety and ease of operation. The new cockpit, developed in collaboration with Honeywell and Universal Avionics, features a suite of innovations aimed at elevating the flying experience for pilots and passengers alike.
Key features of the Overture flight deck include:
- Force-Feedback Sidesticks: A first for commercial airliners, these allow pilots to physically feel the aircraft’s response, providing a more intuitive flying experience.
- Autoland and Augmented Reality: Advanced systems for takeoff and landing, including augmented reality views on a head-worn device, eliminate the need for a droop nose, enhancing safety and efficiency.
- Large Touchscreens: Replacing traditional controls and buttons, 17-inch high-definition touchscreens offer a streamlined interface for managing aircraft functions.
- Over-the-Air Upgrades: Overture’s software will be updated regularly via over-the-air upgrades, allowing for continuous improvement and feature enhancements.
Former Chief Concorde Pilot Mike Bannister praised the flight deck’s design, stating that it surpasses expectations and adds to his excitement about the aircraft’s potential.
Advancing the Symphony Engine
Boom also revealed notable progress on its Symphony engine, a key component of its supersonic ambitions. The Symphony engine is currently undergoing hardware testing, with a full-scale engine core expected to be operational by late 2025. This rapid development phase includes over 30 engine rig tests to refine components such as fan acoustics and fuel efficiency.
The Symphony engine will be assembled and tested at StandardAero’s expanded facility in San Antonio, Texas. The partnership with StandardAero marks a significant step in scaling up production, with plans to produce up to 330 engines annually. Boom is also collaborating with ATI, Inc. to incorporate advanced materials for high-performance components, ensuring the engine’s reliability in sustained supersonic flight.
Future of Supersonic Travel
Boom’s recent achievements come on the heels of the XB-1 supersonic demonstrator’s historic flight in March and the completion of the Overture Superfactory in Greensboro, North Carolina, in June. With these developments, Boom remains on track to achieve FAA and EASA certification for Overture by the end of the decade.
Blake Scholl, founder and CEO of Boom Supersonic, emphasised the company’s commitment to advancing supersonic travel: “Passengers and airlines are eager for supersonic flight. Our innovations in both the flight deck and engine are key steps towards delivering a new era of high-speed air travel.”
Boom’s ongoing partnerships and technological advancements highlight its role in shaping the future of aviation, with the promise of a revolutionary flying experience just on the horizon.