Boom’s XB-1 supersonic demonstrator continues to make steady progress towards breaking the sound barrier. Flight testing momentum has increased in recent weeks, with the demonstrator aircraft completing its latest test sortie – Flight 5, on 7 October in the skies over Mojave Air & Space Port.
Since its maiden flight on March 22, 2024, the aircraft has been undergoing a rigorous flight test program. This program aims to verify its performance and handling characteristics, with about 10 subsonic flights planned before reaching supersonic speeds.
XB-1: Lead-in to the Overture Airliner
XB-1 serves as the cornerstone for Overture, Boom’s supersonic airliner. It incorporates cutting-edge technologies for efficient supersonic flight. These include digitally-optimized aerodynamics, which allow for precise control and reduced drag.
The aircraft also makes extensive use of carbon fiber composites, significantly reducing weight while maintaining structural integrity.
Advanced supersonic engine intakes ensure optimal airflow at high speeds, while an augmented reality vision system enhances pilot visibility during critical takeoff and landing phases.
Flight Test 5
On October 7, 2024, XB-1 completed its fifth flight from Mojave Air & Space Port. The aircraft reached an impressive altitude of 17,800 feet in the R-2515 Airspace.
Chief Test Pilot Tristan “Geppetto” Brandenburg piloted this successful flight, marking the halfway point of the planned subsonic tests.
This flight was particularly noteworthy as it set new records for the XB-1 program, being the fastest, highest, and longest flight to date. Each successive mission ultimately brings XB-1 closer to its ultimate goal of achieving supersonic flight later this year.
Flight Test Parameters & Checks
The October 2024 flight was a significant milestone in Boom Supersonic XB-1’s development. During this flight, the aircraft reached a maximum altitude of 17,800 feet, demonstrating its climbing capabilities.
It achieved a top speed of Mach 0.69, equivalent to 324 knots indicated airspeed (KIAS), pushing the boundaries of its subsonic performance. The flight lasted approximately 50 minutes, allowing for extensive data collection and system evaluations.
Several key test points were accomplished during this flight. The aircraft achieved a new top speed of Mach 0.69, representing a significant step towards supersonic flight.
In a departure from previous flights, the landing gear was retracted immediately after takeoff, a procedure that will become standard in future test flights. This change allows for more accurate assessment of the aircraft’s aerodynamic performance without the interference of extended landing gear.
The flight also saw continued testing of the critical flutter excitation system (FES) at Mach 0.6. The FES was repaired and reinstalled for this flight. It plays a crucial role in data collection at various flutter points.
This system is essential for clearing the flight envelope up to transonic speeds, ensuring the aircraft’s structural integrity under different flight conditions.
As XB-1 reached its new top speed, the test team conducted comprehensive flying and handling quality checks. These included pacer checks, where the XB-1’s speed is compared to a chase plane, and flutter tests to assess the aircraft’s structural behavior at higher speeds.
These tests are vital for understanding the aircraft’s performance and ensuring safety as it approaches supersonic speeds.
Summary
With the successful completion of its fifth flight, XB-1 continues its journey towards achieving supersonic flight. Each test brings the aircraft closer to this milestone, providing valuable data and insights.
The XB-1 program aims to pave the way for a new era of supersonic air travel. As the demonstrator for Boom’s Overture airliner, XB-1’s success is crucial for the future of high-speed commercial aviation.
With each successful flight, Boom Supersonic moves closer to writing a new chapter in the history of aviation. We potentially move towards a second supersonic commercial era.
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