United Airlines CEO predicts Boom Supersonic Overture delay

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby has stated that Boom Supersonic will likely miss its 2029 target for the entry-into-service of the Overture supersonic airliner. Speaking on the Office Hours: Business Edition podcast, Kirby noted that the development and certification processes are expected to take longer than the manufacturer has projected.

United Airlines previously reached an agreement in June 2021 to purchase 15 Overture aircraft, with options for an additional 35. The fulfillment of these orders depends on the aircraft meeting specific safety, operating, and sustainability requirements. While Kirby suggested United could be the first airline to operate the aircraft if the program succeeds, he cautioned that significant hurdles remain and success is not guaranteed.

The Overture is designed to cruise at Mach 1.7 with a range of 4,250 nautical miles and a capacity of 60 to 80 passengers. Boom Supersonic currently holds an order book of 130 aircraft, including commitments from American Airlines and Japan Airlines. The company plans to manufacture the aircraft in Greensboro, North Carolina.