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NASA's X-59 to Soar: Testing Supersonic Silence in 2026

3/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

NASA's X-59 quiet supersonic aircraft will conduct its second flight after successful engine testing on March 12, 2026, at the Armstrong Flight Research Center in California.
Test pilot Jim “Clue” Less will gradually increase the aircraft's speed and altitude during the flight.
Designed by NASA and Lockheed Martin, the X-59 aims to break the sound barrier without creating a disruptive sonic boom.
Following its first flight in October 2025, the aircraft underwent extensive maintenance and will undergo future tests to assess performance and acoustic signature.
Plans include gathering public feedback on the quieter sound during flights over selected U.S. communities.

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Story summary

NASA's X-59 quiet supersonic aircraft will conduct its second flight after successful engine testing on March 12, 2026, at the Armstrong Flight Research Center in California.
Test pilot Jim “Clue” Less will gradually increase the aircraft's speed and altitude during the flight.
Designed by NASA and Lockheed Martin, the X-59 aims to break the sound barrier without creating a disruptive sonic boom.
Following its first flight in October 2025, the aircraft underwent extensive maintenance and will undergo future tests to assess performance and acoustic signature.
Plans include gathering public feedback on the quieter sound during flights over selected U.S. communities.