Bipartisan Bill Could Bring Back Supersonic Flight Over US
A bipartisan bill, the Supersonic Aviation Modernization Act, has been introduced in the US Congress. This bill aims to overturn the 52-year-old ban on supersonic flight over US land. The key condition: no sonic boom should be heard on the ground.
The bill, also known as the "Boom" bill, arrives as Boom Supersonic, a Colorado-based company, advances its next-generation supersonic aircraft development. Boom's XB-1 demonstrator aircraft made history in January as the first privately developed civilian aircraft to break the sound barrier over the continental US. This achievement underscores the growing momentum in supersonic aviation.
North Carolina and Texas Stand to Benefit
North Carolina has a vested interest in the bill's success. Boom Supersonic established a supersonic aircraft factory in Greensboro about a year ago after receiving over $100 million in state incentives. In return, Boom committed to creating more than 1,700 jobs by 2030.
Texas also benefits from Boom's advancements. Boom is partnering with aerospace company StandardAero to develop the engine for its Overture supersonic airliner in San Antonio.
The bill, introduced by Senator Ted Budd (R-NC), Aviation Subcommittee Chair Troy Nehls (R-TX), and Representative Sharice Davids (D-KS), signifies a potential turning point for the future of air travel. By addressing the sonic boom issue, this legislation seeks to unlock the potential of faster, more efficient flights across the country.
Learn more about Boom Supersonic's XB-1's historic flight: TechCrunch Article
See details on Boom's Greensboro factory: Boom Supersonic Factory
Read about Boom's investment in North Carolina: North Carolina Investment
