> why aren't existing airplane manufacturers and airlines doing supersonic? In my opinion it's because it's been tried already and no one, including Boom, has

> why aren't existing airplane manufacturers and airlines doing supersonic? In my opinion it's because it's been tried already and no one, including Boom, has managed to figure out how to make it part of mass market air travel. Boom Overture will be slower than Concorde, carry only 80 passengers, and will only be allowed to be supersonic away from land. The range is 4 250 nautical mile which is a little further than Concorde's 3 900. Perhaps that might be enough to tip the balance and make it profitable but it seems unlikely to me. Concorde carried between 90 and 120 passengers. An Airbus A340-500 has a range of 9 000 nautical miles and carries at least 270 passengers so it carries three times as many passengers the same distance in only twice the time. Which surely makes it more economical. But in can also carry them twice as far before refuelling. So it looks like Boom is only competing directly with Concorde and it's only selling points will be reduced fuel consumption and more comfort. I dare say I've missed something because a lot of smart people seem to think it will work.