NASA flies X-59 quiet supersonic jet as X-plane future debated

NASA is testing the X-59, an experimental jet with an elongated nose that softens sonic booms into quiet thumps, while surveying US communities on acceptable noise levels. The aircraft, built by Lockheed Martin from T-38, F-16 and F-18 parts, first flew in 2025. NASA says future X-planes will likely be uncrewed.

• X-59 turns the sonic boom into a sound like a car door closing across the street
• Aircraft uses parts from T-38, F-16 and F-18; first flight in 2025
• NASA surveys US towns on acceptable boom levels at Mach 1
• Future X-planes will likely be uncrewed, programme manager says