LONDON – In one of the biggest moves in aviation that we have seen in the last 3 years, American Airlines has now joined United Airlines in purchasing 20 of the new Supersonic jets underdevelopment with manufacturer Boom Supersonic.

In an interview with CNBC news Blake Scholl, Founder and CEO of Boom said: “We believe Overture can help American deepen its competitive advantage on network, loyalty and overall airline preference through the paradigm-changing benefits of cutting travel times in half.”

Second Firm Order for the Supersonic Jet

The American Airlines order joins United’s order for 15 aircraft, placed in 2021. American’s announcement makes it only the second firm order in the last two years for boom, with the first plane still years away from being built.

Derek Kerr, American’s Chief Financial Officer commented on the announcement saying: “Looking to the future, supersonic travel will be an important part of our ability to deliver for our customers”

It will be the first supersonic jet to enter the commercial market since Concorde in the early 2000s, however, the fall of that supersonic plane was ultimately boiled down to running costs, and with the cost of fuel and aircraft parts currently rising around the world, only time will tell whether or not this plane will like Concorde, arrive at just the wrong time to become a complete success.

American Airlines Committed to the long-haul

The announcement today shows that American Airlines has signed a firm order for 20 of the jets, however, they do also have options on an additional 40 overtures.

Mr Scholl added: “We are proud to share our vision of a more connected and sustainable world with American Airlines”

American advertising that Overture will allow London – Miami in five hours, and Los Angeles to Honolulu in three hours. It is worth noting that supersonic speed is only possible over water.

It is believed that the carrier has had to pay Boom an undisclosed fee, which is believed to be non-refundable.

The order follows Boom showing the final design for Overture at a press event held at the 2022 Farnborough Airshow. Boom is targeting a 2025 rollout date, with entry to commercial service slated for 2029.

Overture can seat up to 80 passengers, with a range of 4250 nautical miles.