The return of supersonic air travel is one step closer to takeoff, thanks to a directive from President Donald Trump.
The executive order signed late Friday instructs the Federal Aviation Administration to scrap its 1973 regulation that prevents civilian aircraft from traveling faster than the speed of sound over the United States.
Trump’s order could provide a boost to startups like Boom Supersonic — and a challenge for the climate. Supersonic airplanes currently under development are expected to consume at least seven times more jet fuel per passenger than traditional aircraft, according to independent aviation analysts.
The companies have yet to begin testing or producing the powerful engines necessary to break the sound barrier, meaning that supersonic jets won’t take flight just yet.
