Yes, we all miss Concorde. Even we had never traveled with it, and perhaps even if we were unable to travel at all, its presence was an inspiration. It had a fatal accident while it was struggling with an already loss-making commercial operation. Especially after the accident, when the earnings of the passengers were not enough to cover its own expenses, Concorde were defeated in the economic war. Supersonic travel has come out of our lives since 2003 when its flights stopped. However, studies have not stopped, and new projects are progressing to bring commercial supersonic flights back to life.
Boom Overture
Boom’s aim is combining materials and technologies proven on other passenger aircraft into a breakthrough new design, giving passengers and airlines a revolutionary speedup (Mach 2.2). Design is based on all-business-class interior for comfort, privacy, and productivity. The company is working to carry 55-75 passengers from London to New york in just 3 hours 15 minutes and from Paris to Montreal in just 3 hours 45 minutes. This means shortening your trip from three days to just one, while doing business across the world and be home before jet lag sets in.
Aerion – Boeing
The Aerion AS2 is a 12-passenger supersonic business jet under development aims for Mach 1.6 speed. On February 5, 2019 Boeing announced a partnership with Aerion. Over land, the AS2 cruises efficiently at Mach 0.95, faster than any jet today, and without producing a sonic boom. The aircraft is slated for first flight in 2023.
Spike S-512
The Spike S-512 is the only supersonic jet in development that will fly at twice the speed of other jets without creating a loud sonic boom. The project aims to carry 12-18 passengers at Mach 1.6 speed. The first thing you’ll notice in the cabin of the S-512 are the expansive, high-definition screens spanning each side. These revolutionary displays can show any view you wish, whether it’s your real-time aircraft surroundings, your favorite movie or a work presentation.
Contrary, there is also a resistance to the new wave of supersonic development, largely from environmental groups who are concerned about the air pollution the new models of plane will bring.
Flying supersonic is clearly the future of aviation, making the world smaller and more accessible. Againsnt all odds, the foreseeable future of supersonic air travel is very promising. The return of supersonic passenger flights might be just a few years away.
Sources:
https://boomsupersonic.com
https://www.aerionsupersonic.com
http://www.spikeaerospace.com