A report from the National Science and Technology Council

Boom Supersonic is sticking to its guns, with the aircraft manufacturer believing in SST and citing the latest report from the National Science and Technology Council extensively. Boom says the U.S. Civil Administration's vision notes the emerging commercial interest in supersonic flight and emphasizes the critical importance of sustainable aviation. "U.S. leadership in aeronautics has long been the foundation for economic prosperity and national security. Whether it's next-generation fuels, advances in aircraft design, or improvements in aviation infrastructure, the aviation industry is poised for disruption and transformation. That's why continued investment in cutting-edge aeronautical research and development (R&D) is critical to ensuring the vitality of this important sector." 

This is the call to arms of the "National Aeronautics Science & Technology Priorities" report (literally National Aeronautics Science & Technology Priorities), which sets forth the U.S. government's vision for maintaining its global positioning and its top strategic priorities in aeronautics. Released on March 17, 2023, the report was developed by aviation experts with input from leaders in academia, nonprofit organizations and the commercial sector. It outlines activities to maintain the nation's lead, both in the global aviation industry and in national security applications.

Three Strategic Priorities

The report identifies three strategic priorities. The first is to achieve sustainable aviation, the second is to transform the national airspace system, and the third is to promote connectivity and speed. Two of these priorities, "Achieving Sustainable Aviation" and "Promoting Connectivity and Speed," are closely related to Boom Supersonic's key principles of speed and sustainability. In particular, the report highlights the emergence and importance of supersonic commercial flight to improve connectivity, as well as the need for new aircraft and engine technologies that address strategic priorities, underscoring the urgency of innovation and technical progress to maintain global leadership.

Promoting Connectivity and Speed

Air transportation quickly moves people and goods across the country and around the world, and connects people to each other at unprecedented speeds. It plays a critical and unique role in the nation's transportation system. The U.S. government will continue to explore new technologies that will improve global connectivity at greater speeds. To remain on the global aviation podium, the U.S. Government will advance connectivity and speed, while maintaining the unprecedented safety of air travel and ensuring the environmental sustainability of the aviation sector. Beyond improvements in traditional subsonic aircraft operations, increasing speed offers another approach to improving connectivity. Supersonic flight is defined as speeds above the speed of sound (Mach 1). Supersonic flight is gaining commercial interest for cargo and passenger transport. Finally, the report notes that "the ability to compete is critical to preserving the role of the United States as the world's largest economy. The U.S. government will support efforts to create and maintain high-skill, high-wage jobs."