Commercial Supersonic Flights: Evaluating Consumer, Environmental and Regulatory Perspectives

Abstract

This paper explores the nature of commercial supersonic travel. From understanding the significance of supersonic flights to analyzing the impact of Concorde and Tupolev TU-144 in its journey as the only commercialized supersonic aircraft. Concorde project was not a financial success. Both the supersonic jets faced insurmountable complications. Through comprehensive examination of the economic challenges, environmental constraints and consumer perception, it became apparent why Concorde and Tupolev’s era was short-lived. As interest in commercial supersonic travel grows, meticulous planning is needed to overcome the factors that adversely affected Concorde and Tupolev. Through Mixed-method approach, the author utilizes questionnaire to analyze the current consumer perception regarding supersonic transport and its implications on the next-generation SST. Existing literature is utilized to comprehend the current environmental and regulatory provisions. The findings reveal that there is a considerable desire amongst travelers to experience commercial SST, however, it needs to resolve the factors that affected its predecessors. Supersonic transport can be implemented in the commercial aviation space with success, provided that the planning and execution of such an endeavor is absolute. The author also makes proposals on incorporating certain technologies, design practices and sustainable fuels to overcome major hurdles such as reduced sonic-boom, alleviation of contrails, CO2 and non-CO2 based emissions, ensuring that supersonic transport of the future can meet the stern provisions of environmental and operational guidelines of today.