American Airlines pays deposit for 20 supersonic passenger planes

American Airlines, the world’s largest airline, has paid a non-refundable deposit for an initial 20 supersonic airliners.

The agreement to purchase the Overture from US firm Boom Supersonic also includes an option for an additional 40 aircraft.

Overture is expected to carry passengers at twice the speed of today’s fastest commercial aircraft. It is designed to carry 65-80 passengers at Mach 1.7 (2,100km/h) over water, with a range of 4,250 nautical miles (7,870km/h).

“Looking to the future, supersonic travel will be an important part of our ability to deliver for our customers,” said Derek Kerr, American’s chief financial officer. “We are excited about how Boom will shape the future of travel both for our company and our customers.”

Under the terms of the agreement, Boom must meet industry-standard operating, performance and safety requirements, as well as American’s other customary conditions before delivery of any Overtures.

“We are proud to share our vision of a more connected and sustainable world with American Airlines,” said Blake Scholl, founder and CEO of Boom. “We believe Overture can help American deepen its competitive advantage… through the paradigm-changing benefits of cutting travel times in half.”

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