United Airlines has taken a pioneering leap into the future of air travel, confirming a firm order for 15 Overture supersonic jets from Boom Supersonic, with an option to acquire 35 additional aircraft. Following comprehensive safety, operational, and sustainability evaluations, United aims to integrate these Mach 1.7 (1,300 mph) jets into its fleet by 2029. Boom Supersonic, headquartered in Denver, projects that Overture will begin flight testing in 2026, with deliveries to United scheduled to commence in 2029.
Japan Airlines (JAL) previously invested $10 million into Boom’s R&D efforts and maintains pre-order options for up to 20 Overture aircraft, reflecting global confidence in the program. Boom’s prototype demonstrator continues to undergo advanced testing in preparation for its maiden flight. The Overture order backlog—including both confirmed and optioned units—now totals 70 aircraft, underscoring robust industry demand.
Supersonic aviation has historically raised concerns regarding both economic viability and environmental footprint. However, Boom and United have committed to addressing these challenges by designing Overture to operate exclusively on 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This marks a world-first for commercial passenger jets, setting a new benchmark for eco-conscious high-speed travel.
Blake Scholl, founder and CEO of Boom Supersonic, stated, “Securing the world’s inaugural net-zero carbon supersonic aircraft purchase agreement is a transformative milestone. Boom and United share a unified vision: connecting the globe safely, efficiently, and sustainably. United’s guests will soon enjoy the unparalleled advantage of traveling at twice the current commercial speed, enabling richer business connections and more time at extraordinary destinations.”
With a cruising speed of Mach 1.7—double that of today’s fastest passenger planes—Overture will dramatically reduce journey times. Proposed routes for United include Newark to London in just 3.5 hours, San Francisco to Tokyo in six hours, and Newark to Frankfurt in four hours, redefining transatlantic and transpacific travel.
United CEO Scott Kirby remarked, “United remains steadfast in our mission to build the world’s most innovative and sustainable airline. Advances in aerospace technology are making supersonic travel a realistic addition to our network. By joining forces with Boom, United will offer both business and leisure travelers an elevated, time-saving flight experience across our industry-leading global route map.”
United and Boom are collaborating closely to ensure that the Overture passenger experience is both refined and comfortable, emphasizing premium service and design. The Overture is configured to accommodate 88 passengers, promising an exclusive and intimate onboard environment.
The landscape of commercial supersonic flight is rapidly evolving. Aerion, based in Nevada, has revealed its AS3TM concept, engineered to transport 50 passengers at speeds up to Mach 4—over 3,000 mph. Meanwhile, Boston’s Spike Aerospace is advancing toward the introduction of its 1,100 mph private jet, targeting a 2025 debut. The race for the next generation of high-speed aviation is well underway, with United and Boom at the forefront of this renaissance.
