American Airlines pays deposit for 20 Boom Overtures

American Airlines has paid a non-refundable deposit on an initial 20 Overtures from Boom Supersonic with the option for another 40.

American said it hopes to gain a speed advantage for its fleet by utilising the Overture. Under the terms of the agreement, Boom must meet operating, performance and safety requirements as well as American’s other conditions before the delivery of any aircraft.

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

Overture is being designed to carry 65 to 80 passengers at Mach 1.7 over water with a range of 4,250 nm. The aircraft is being designed to fly more than 600 routes in as little as half the time, making it capable of flying, for example, from Miami to London in under five hours.

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

In July, Boom revealed the final production design of Overture, which is slated to roll out in 2025 and carry its first passengers by 2029.