Leading the World in Supersonic Flight

Jun 11, 2025
Jun 11, 2025

Summary

Removes old rules that stop planes from flying faster than sound over land and pushes for new technology to make the U.S. a leader in high-speed flight.

What problem does this solve?

Outdated rules have stopped the United States from developing supersonic planes for over 50 years, allowing other countries to take the lead. This order removes those old rules and supports new research to help American companies build the next generation of faster and quieter aircraft.

Who does this affect?

  • Aerospace industry
  • Airlines
  • General public

What does this order do?

Repeals ban on supersonic flight over land
Directs the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to remove the rule that stops planes from flying faster than sound over land within 180 days.
Creates new noise rules for fast planes
Requires the FAA to propose new rules for how loud supersonic planes can be within 18 months and issue a final rule within 24 months.
Coordinates research and development
Tells the Office of Science and Technology Policy to work with other government groups to guide research on supersonic flight technology.
Works with other countries on flight rules
Directs government officials to work with international groups and other countries to create similar supersonic flight rules around the world.

What is the real world impact?

Increases noise and environmental pollution
Repealing the ban on overland supersonic flight could lead to increased noise pollution from sonic booms and higher carbon emissions, affecting communities and the environment, despite promises of quieter technology.
Regains global leadership in aviation
Aims to re-establish the United States as the top country in aerospace by removing old regulations that have held back American companies, allowing them to compete with and lead other nations in high-speed flight technology.

When does this start?

This order sets several deadlines for government agencies to update rules for supersonic flight over the next two years.
Repeal of overland flight ban
Within 180 days of June 6, 2025, the FAA must repeal the ban on supersonic flight over land and set a temporary noise standard.
Proposed new noise rules
Within 18 months of June 6, 2025, the FAA must propose new rules for supersonic aircraft noise.
Final new noise rules
Within 24 months of June 6, 2025, the FAA must issue the final version of the new noise rules.