“X-59 Takes Flight: Ushering in a Groundbreaking Age of Supersonic Travel”

Lockheed Martin Skunk Works^® (NYSE: LMT), in collaboration with NASA, has proudly completed the inaugural flight of the X-59, an innovative, quiet supersonic aircraft aimed at revolutionizing commercial air travel.

The X-59 successfully departed from Skunk Works’ facility at U.S. Air Force Plant 42, located in Palmdale, California, and made a safe landing near NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California. The flight went precisely as anticipated, confirming initial flying characteristics and air data performance on its way to a secure landing.

“We are ecstatic to mark the first flight of the X-59,” stated OJ Sanchez, Vice President and General Manager of Lockheed Martin Skunk Works. “This aircraft exemplifies the innovation and skill of our collaborative team, and we take pride in our leadership in quiet supersonic technology development.”

This ground-breaking supersonic aircraft is engineered to showcase its capability to operate at supersonic speeds while minimizing the sonic boom to a soft thump. By achieving this, the X-59 addresses a significant hurdle for supersonic commercial flights currently impeded by noise regulations over land. The successful development and flight testing of the X-59 will support the establishment of data-driven noise thresholds for commercial supersonic travel, paving the way for a new era of supersonic aircraft that can transport passengers and cargo twice as swiftly as existing aircraft.

“The X-59 symbolizes American ingenuity. The American spirit is limitless, rooted in our DNA—a commitment to explore farther, faster, and quieter than anyone before. This endeavor reinforces America’s leadership in aviation and has the potential to reshape public air travel,” remarked Sean Duffy, Acting NASA Administrator.

Skunk Works will spearhead the aircraft’s preliminary flight test campaign, collaborating closely with NASA to extend the X-59’s flight envelope in the upcoming months. Part of this exciting testing phase will include the X-59’s first supersonic flights, allowing the aircraft to reach optimal speeds and altitudes to capture a quiet boom. This will enable NASA to analyze the X-59’s sound signature and conduct essential community acceptance testing.

This significant achievement underscores Lockheed Martin’s unwavering commitment to pushing the frontiers of aerospace innovation and its dedication to pioneering advanced solutions for the future of flight.