The Supersonic, Super Quiet, Transport
Back in 1964 the film 2001: A Space Odyssey featured a supersonic space commuter plane, courtesy of Pan Am. In 2009, we have the makings of just that vessel. Aviation consortium Supersonic Aerospace International (also known as SAI), based in Nevada, is developing a supersonic aircraft called Quiet Supersonic Transport (aka the QSST). This 12-seat business jet aircraft with two engines will move at speeds of Mach 1.6 to 1.8. SAI has invited engine proposals from General Electric, Pratt & Whitney and Rolls-Royce. As expected engines will be selected in 2010, first flight will be held in 2014, and aircraft can be bought in 2016. Price for such luxury will be about $80 million!
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