Boom Technology, Inc, a Colorado based aviation startup has a vision! They plan to offer everyday travelers supersonic passenger service that is routine, affordable and safe.
Tuesday, November 15th the Richard Branson backed company, introduced the ‘Baby Boom’ XB1 Supersonic Demonstrator. The XB1 Baby Boom is a one third sized version of the Mach 2.2, full sized 45 seat supersonic aircraft they hope to carry paying passengers on in the near future.
According to Boom, the XB1 Baby Boom prototype will start production soon with the first flight expected in late 2017.
The first subsonic flights of the Baby Boom XB1 will take place near Denver, Colorado. Supersonic test flights will be in coordination with Branson’s Virgin Galactic’s The Spaceship Company near Edwards Air Force Base, CA.
“I have long been passionate about aerospace innovation and the development of high-speed commercial flights,” said Richard Branson, founder of Virgin Group. “As an innovator in the space, Virgin Galactic’s decision to work with Boom was an easy one. We’re excited to have an option on Boom’s first 10 airframes. Through Virgin Galactic’s manufacturing arm, The Spaceship Company, we will provide engineering and manufacturing services, along with flight test support and operations as part of our shared ambitions.”
Specifications of the XB1 Baby Boom aircraft include;
- Two person crew consisting of one pilot and one flight engineer.
- 68 foot length with a 17 foot wingspan.
- 13,500 pound maximum takeoff weight.
- Three General Electric J85-21 non-afterburning engines.
- Expected cruise speed will be Mach 2.2 (1,451mph, 2,335 km/h).
- Estimated range of about 1000 nautical miles.
Featured image courtesy of Boom Technology, Inc
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