Engineers at Collins Aerospace are to work with Boom Supersonic’s to develop the nacellles for the planned supersonic airliner, Overture as part of a new agreement between the two companies.
Boom plans to roll out the first completed Overture aircraft in 2025, with entry into service planned for 2029. The aircraft is in its design phase, while engineers plan to start flight testing a prototype called XB-1 next year.
Collins Aerospace engineers will work with Boom to develop inlet, nacelle and exhaust system technologies that reduce fuel-burn and noise during supersonic flight, using lightweight aerostructures and variable nacelle geometry.
Collins Aerospace has been providing innovative nacelle technology for more than 70 years, including development of the first commercial variable fan nozzle for high-bypass-ratio geared turbofan (GTF) engines.
Marc Duvall, president of aerostructures at Collins Aerospace said, “Through improved acoustics and lightweight materials systems, we can provide the next generation of supersonic propulsion systems with the nacelle technologies that not only enable higher performance and lower fuel burn, but also quieter operation.
“Having completed 19 nacelle certification programs over the past decade, we’re uniquely positioned to collaborate with Boom Supersonic to create new propulsion-system solutions that will be key enablers of Overture’s success.”
The combined engineering team will be exploring the development of advanced acoustics and variable inlet and exhaust technologies required to minimize aircraft noise for passengers and airport communities while enhancing performance.
Blake Scholl, Boom founder and CEO said, “We are leveraging Collins’ experience in developing more fuel efficient and noise attenuating technologies for nacelles to help us develop Overture as an environmentally responsible supersonic jet.”
