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Aerion said it plans to build 12-passenger jets by 2023 and test them in 2024, although experts in supersonic aviation said that timetable might be difficult to meet because of the COVID-19 pandemic and delays that are frequent in any new aerospace venture.
Aerion said it wants to market its planned AS2 jet to charter companies, corporations and some individuals. The hook would be speeds of up to 990 mph -- or Mach 1.5 -- which is more than 50 percent faster than current long-range jets, Aerion said.
The firm also claimed it would ensure flights are carbon neutral by using biofuel in the jets and renewable energy in manufacturing while sponsoring the planting of 100 million trees around the globe to absorb carbon.
Location an advantage
A location in
Such a location also would facilitate development, the company said.
"Being able to test over water for a supersonic aircraft will be enormously important," Clarke said. "We will not travel at supersonic speeds over land to avoid creating sonic booms."
Aerion had planned to begin testing of an earlier model of its jet -- the SBJ -- in 2019. Before any tests began, Aerion announced it would pursue a new model, the AS2, with an updated design that includes a larger cabin and greater range.
Aerion engaged
Partners with NASA
Aerion's work on new supersonic technology includes a partnership with NASA to test a method of reducing air friction and fuel consumption known as natural laminar flow, according to the space agency.
Aerion said it can build the AS2 for about
Aboulafia said Aerion has impressive technology and leadership, but it remains to be seen if the company can produce what it promises and if it can sell the planes.
"The two big challenges for Aerion are to maintain their existing alliance to get the AS2 built in these uncertain times, and then convincing very high-end corporate customers to pay a higher price for more speed and less space," Aboulafia said.
Air pollution standards and fuel costs would create additional challenges, the analyst said. The firm also faces growing financial storm clouds for its major investors, including
The cost of Aerion's jet will limit its potential customer base, said
Some wealthy businessmen might be willing to pay the additional cost if they see the faster travel time as a status symbol, Boyd said.
"The key challenge today in the commercial passenger business is to develop technology that allows supersonic aircraft to fly efficiently," Boyd said. "High fuel consumption leading to high seat prices was what ultimately doomed Concorde."
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