EP 140: Blake Scholl (Founder and CEO, Boom Supersonic) on Why Supersonic Flight Failed & How Boom is Bringing it Back

This episode explores the history of supersonic flight and the reasons behind its stagnation, contrasting the Concorde's failure with the potential for future supersonic travel. Against the backdrop of the Concorde's demise, attributed to its flawed business model and government-driven development, the discussion pivots to the current efforts of Boom Supersonic. More significantly, Boom's approach emphasizes a commercially viable business model focused on premium transoceanic routes, utilizing existing technology and addressing regulatory hurdles. For instance, Boom's focus on "boomless" supersonic flight over water aims to circumvent existing speed restrictions over land. The interview further highlights the challenges of building a startup in a century-old industry, emphasizing the importance of talent acquisition and retention strategies. In contrast to the Concorde's shortcomings, Boom's collaboration with United Airlines and its focus on a refined, customer-centric design suggest a more promising path for the future of supersonic travel. This means a potential resurgence of supersonic flight, driven by a market-driven approach and technological advancements, with implications for the broader aviation industry and international travel.