Lawmakers in the United States are pushing to legalize the use of emissions-heavy supersonic planes in the country. A bill known as the “Supersonic Aviation Modernization Act” aims to repeal a long-standing ban on civilian aircraft traveling faster than the speed of sound over U.S. airspace. This move could potentially open up a significant market for companies like Boom Supersonic, a planemaking startup that is supported by major players such as United Airlines, Japan Airlines, and billionaire CEO Sam Altman.
The last commercial supersonic flights were operated by the Concorde between New York and London until 2003. With Boom Supersonic developing new jets that are estimated to consume twice as much fuel per passenger compared to current commercial airplanes, concerns have been raised about the environmental impact of legalizing supersonic flights.
The bill, introduced by Sen. Ted Budd and Rep. Troy Nehls, aims to overturn the regulation that prohibits non-military supersonic flights over the U.S. The legislation would require the Federal Aviation Administration to update its rules to allow for civilian supersonic flights as long as they do not create audible sonic booms on the ground.
Supporters of the bill, including Boom’s founder and CEO Blake Scholl, argue that allowing supersonic flights without sonic booms is a necessary step to modernize aviation and maintain American leadership in the industry. However, environmental groups have raised concerns about the potential increase in emissions and fuel consumption that could result from legalizing supersonic flights.
As NASA prepares to conduct test flights of a supersonic jet designed to produce quieter sonic “thumps,” rather than loud booms, and the International Civil Aviation Organization works on developing new noise standards, the debate over supersonic travel continues to evolve.
Boom Supersonic has already completed successful test flights of a prototype plane that reportedly did not produce audible sonic booms. The company is also working on designing engines that can run on sustainable aviation fuel, which has lower carbon emissions compared to traditional jet fuel. However, the economic viability of operating supersonic jets with sustainable fuel remains a concern for airlines.
Overall, the push to legalize emissions-heavy supersonic planes in the U.S. raises complex questions about the balance between technological innovation, environmental impact, and economic feasibility in the aviation industry. As lawmakers debate the future of supersonic travel, the potential consequences for emissions and fuel consumption will be important factors to consider.
