Supersonic planes are inching toward takeoff. That could be a problem.
1 min read
Summary
Boom Supersonic’s test flight of its XB-1 jet reached Mach 1.122, marking the return of supersonic travel but also a potential climate challenge to overcome.
Supersonic planes create higher emissions through burning increased fuel and flying higher, which could warm the planet further.
The company’s answer to this issue is to utilise 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), which is made from biological sources or waste products, although this is currently in limited supply.
The SAFs available can cut emissions by up to 70% but cynically, the alternative fuels may still come with some level of carbon pollution.
The company aims to begin commercial operations of Overture, a 65-passenger jet, before the end of the decade and has already sold dozens of planes to customers including United Airlines and American Airlines.