Is Supersonic Flight Safe Enough for Commercial Use?

As Aerion and Lockheed Martin gear up for the release of their supersonic business jet by 2025, the question of safety becomes paramount. Can supersonic flight be a reliable and secure mode of transportation?

The Safety of Supersonic Travel

Supersonic flight, while pushing the boundaries of conventional air travel, is not inherently unsafe. In fact, the development of supersonic travel will bring new challenges, including exposure to solar radiation and cosmic rays. However, given the extensive human experience in space travel, these issues can be managed with practical solutions. Even so, the stringent structural and operational regulations that supersonic aircraft must meet ensure a level of safety comparable to today's first-tier airlines, which are known for their exceptional safety records.

Addressing New Challenges

While concerns about solar exposure and cosmic rays are valid, they are not insurmountable. The aerospace industry has addressed similar challenges with technologies and materials that enhance safety and performance. For instance, experts in solar radiation protection and protective shielding are well-equipped to mitigate these risks effectively.

Mankind's experience in space travel provides a valuable resource for developing practical solutions. The Concorde, which operated commercially from 1976 to 2003, paved the way for future supersonic travel. Additionally, decades of experience with supersonic military jets have further contributed to the knowledge base for safer supersonic operations.

Operational Safety and Training

The regulatory framework for supersonic travel is stringent, requiring the aircraft and its operations to meet the same safety standards as subsonic planes, if not more. Pilots will undergo rigorous training to handle the unique challenges of supersonic flight, including the higher approach and touchdown speeds of these aircraft. While there are concerns about the safety of supersonic flight, the industry has the tools and expertise to address these issues.

Economic Feasibility

Beyond safety, economic feasibility is a critical consideration. Supersonic flight, while safe, faces challenges in terms of cost. Flying at supersonic speeds burns more fuel, which increases the operational costs. Furthermore, the high cost of building and maintaining supersonic aircraft and the justification for purchasing them over other options must be carefully considered.

However, just as corporations have found justification for purchasing subsonic business jets, they will also likely find a need for supersonic jets, especially for time-sensitive business leaders. Factors such as reduced fuel costs and the continued demand for rapid business travel can make a compelling case for supersonic jets. Weather, air traffic, and other elements may still impact the efficiency of supersonic travel, but the speed advantage will remain a key differentiator.

Conclusion

Supersonic flight is not inherently unsafe, and the industry has the knowledge and technology to address new challenges. While economic factors play a significant role, the benefits of supersonic travel, particularly for time-sensitive business, make it a viable option. With the right regulatory framework and careful consideration of economic factors, supersonic flight can indeed be a safe and effective means of commercial travel.