U.S. Senator Ted Budd from North Carolina and Congressman Troy Nehls of Texas have introduced the Supersonic Aviation Modernization (SAM) Act. This legislation aims to instruct the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to establish regulations allowing civil supersonic flights in the United States, provided that no sonic boom reaches the ground.
For over five decades, U.S. airspace has had a speed limit due to 14 CFR § 91.817, enacted in 1973, which restricts non-military aircraft from flying faster than Mach 1. The SAM Act seeks to lift this ban, enabling operators to fly at supersonic speeds without disturbing those on the ground.
Senator Budd emphasized the importance of maintaining global leadership in aerospace innovation by modernizing air travel and removing outdated restrictions on civil supersonic flight. He stated: “The race for supersonic dominance between the U.S. and China is already underway and the stakes couldn’t be higher.”
Congressman Nehls highlighted that U.S. laws should foster innovations without compromising safety: “Our nation’s laws and regulations should encourage these innovations and uplift companies that are leading in industries, including the aviation industry.”
Blake Scholl, CEO of Boom Supersonic, supported the initiative stating: “Supersonic flight without an audible sonic boom should obviously be allowed.” He urged Congress to pass the SAM Act quickly so Americans can enjoy faster flights while preserving leadership in aviation.
Ed Bolen from the National Business Aviation Association praised Senator Budd for his approach that balances safety with technological advancement: “This commonsense legislation maintains safety while clearing the way for innovative technologies to flourish.”
The bill also has backing from Senators Thom Tillis, Mike Lee, Tim Sheehy, and Congresswoman Sharice Davids who joined their colleagues in supporting this legislative effort.
American companies like Boom Supersonic have developed technology that prevents sonic booms from reaching the ground through a phenomenon known as Mach cutoff. However, existing FAA regulations continue to impede supersonic operations despite these advancements.
If passed, the SAM Act would require a review of current restrictions within a year.
