EP 140: Blake Scholl (Founder and CEO, Boom Supersonic) on Why Supersonic Flight Failed & How Boom is Bringing it Back

Blake Scholl, Founder and CEO of Boom Supersonic, discusses the failures of supersonic flight, particularly the Concorde, which is now a museum piece despite its technological advancements. He critiques the business model of supersonic travel, noting that a small percentage of business class seats generate most profits, raising questions about economic viability. Scholl envisions a future where supersonic travel enables same-day round trips, highlighting stagnation in aviation innovation since the 1960s due to a shift from founder-led to government-led initiatives.

The Concorde, a joint venture between France and Britain, failed due to high operational costs and limited market appeal. Scholl argues that both the Concorde and Apollo programs were economically impractical, with Apollo lacking a follow-up plan after its moon landing. He emphasizes the need for fair competition and an environment conducive to innovation, pointing out that regulatory challenges, particularly the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), complicate infrastructure projects and delay progress.

Cultural shifts since the 1970s have also impacted motivation and progress in various sectors. The Concorde, which flew at Mach 2, significantly outpaced today's commercial airlines, which operate at Mach 0.75 to 0.85. Its high ticket prices and uncomfortable flying experience limited demand, leading to its disbandment in 2003. Scholl reflects on the structural limitations that hinder the development of new supersonic aircraft that align with market demands, particularly the restrictions on supersonic flight over land due to sonic boom concerns.

Boom's strategy focuses on using proven technology for a new supersonic airliner, targeting transoceanic routes where flights can be subsonic over land and supersonic over water. Recent breakthroughs in technology allow for supersonic flight without an audible sonic boom, suggesting a potential path forward for supersonic travel. The XB-1, the first civil supersonic jet made in America since 1969, recently achieved its first flight breaking the sound barrier, with plans for a full-scale airplane ready for passengers by the end of 2029.

United Airlines has shown significant vision by ordering supersonic jets, collaborating on technical reviews, and ensuring operational aspects are well-designed. The development team at Boom has achieved significant milestones, including designing a full-scale jet engine and establishing a factory in North Carolina. The project has reached a "config freeze," indicating that engineering optimizations are complete, with the first full-scale engine set to run on a test stand soon.

The potential for supersonic flights to normalize faster travel is highlighted, allowing for more frequent and accessible travel experiences. Scholl advocates for repealing the ban on supersonic flight and emphasizes the need for innovation in the aviation industry. He critiques the aerospace sector's stagnation, largely due to a lack of cost pressure from government contracts, and points to the struggles of established companies like Boeing.

The team at Boom includes members from unconventional backgrounds, prioritizing problem-solving skills and passion over traditional qualifications. Scholl reflects on the ambitious goals for their supersonic passenger jet, aiming for a design that is 10% faster than the Concorde while addressing practical challenges. The development timeline focuses on creating a Minimum Viable Product (MVP), with pre-order deals from airlines indicating strong interest in the project.

Scholl discusses the geopolitical landscape, noting the urgency for reindustrialization in the U.S. and advocating for next-generation airplanes for economic and defense purposes. He calls for streamlined permitting processes, the legalization of supersonic flight, and reduced federal spending to encourage private investment. Scholl emphasizes the need for clarity on U.S. manufacturing goals, advocating for a focus on producing important products and investing in robotics to enhance productivity.