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Supersonic and Hypersonic Jets Poised to Revolutionize Global Travel
16 Nov
Summary
- Lockheed Martin's X-59 jet takes first test flight, reducing sonic booms
- Concept for Mach 7.3 hypersonic airliner that could fly London to New York in 45 minutes
- Boom Supersonic's XB-1 jet breaks sound barrier quietly, paving way for supersonic flights
As of November 16th, 2025, aerospace companies are making significant strides in developing the next generation of high-speed aircraft. Lockheed Martin, in collaboration with NASA, has taken a major step forward with the X-59 jet, which recently completed its first test flight. This supersonic aircraft is designed to solve the problem of sonic booms, a major obstacle to approving supersonic flights over populated areas. The X-59 is said to produce a much quieter "thump" instead, with noise levels of just 75 decibels at ground level.
Meanwhile, Lockheed Martin is also working on an even more ambitious project - the SR-72, a hypersonic jet capable of reaching speeds of Mach 6 or more. While this military craft is not intended for commercial use, another concept, the A-HyM Hypersonic Air Master, envisions a civilian hypersonic airliner that could fly at Mach 7.3, slashing a London to New York trip to just 45 minutes.
