United Airlines agrees to purchase 15 Boom Overture airliners

US carrier United Airlines has entered an agreement with aerospace company Boom Supersonic to purchase 15 of its Overture aircraft.

The aircraft is yet to fulfil United’s safety, operating and sustainability requirements but the two companies have agreed to collaborate to meet those demands prior to delivery.

Under the agreement, United has an option for an additional 35 aircraft.

The financial details of the deal have not been disclosed.

Boom expects to launch the supersonic jet in 2025, with plans to commence flight the following year. It is slated to carry passengers by 2029.

United CEO Scott Kirby said: “United continues on its trajectory to build a more innovative, sustainable airline and today’s advancements in technology are making it more viable for that to include supersonic planes.

“Boom’s vision for the future of commercial aviation, combined with the industry’s most robust route network in the world, will give business and leisure travellers access to a stellar flight experience.

“Our mission has always been about connecting people and now working with Boom, we’ll be able to do that on an even greater scale.”

Boom’s Overture is expected to become the first large commercial aircraft to be net-zero carbon from the first day of its service entry. It will leverage 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

The aircraft will be capable of flying at speeds of Mach 1.7, which is double the speed of today’s fastest airliners.

It features in-seat entertainment screens and contactless technology.

Boom Supersonic founder and CEO Blake Scholl said: At speeds twice as fast, United passengers will experience all the advantages of life lived in person, from deeper, more productive business relationships to longer, more relaxing vacations to far-off destinations.”

Late last month, US-based aircraft manufacturer Aerion Supersonic reportedly confirmed that it is shutting down operations due to financial challenges.