NASA and Lockheed Martin Skunk Works have successfully flown the X-59 quiet supersonic research aircraft for the very first time after almost a decade of development.
The X-59, also known as X-59 QueSST, took off on October 28, 2025, from Skunk Works’ facility at US Air Force Plant 42 in Palmdale, California. According to flightradar2, the aircraft flew for just over an hour before landing at Edwards Air Force Base (EDW).
The X-59 has been designed to fly at supersonic speeds while reducing the sonic boom to a gentle thump. In doing so, the X-59 aims to overcome one of the primary barriers to supersonic commercial flight, which is currently restricted over land due to noise concerns.
“We are thrilled to achieve the first flight of the X-59,” said OJ Sanchez, Vice President and General Manager of Lockheed Martin Skunk Works. “This aircraft is a testament to the innovation and expertise of our joint team, and we are proud to be at the forefront of quiet supersonic technology development.”
According to Lockheed, the X-59 “performed exactly as planned, verifying initial flying qualities and air data performance on the way to a safe landing at its new home”.
The hope is that data gathered from the X-59 flight testing will help to build an understanding of the acceptable noise thresholds related to supersonic commercial flight over land.
Boom Supersonic is also pursuing quiet supersonic travel. Earlier this year, the XB-1 demonstrator broke the sound barrier three times, but not one of those occasions caused an audible sonic boom.
“X-59 is a symbol of American ingenuity. The American spirit knows no bounds. It’s part of our DNA – the desire to go farther, faster, and even quieter than anyone has ever gone before. This work sustains America’s place as the leader in aviation and has the potential to change the way the public flies,” said Sean Duffy, acting NASA Administrator.
The X-59 has completed its first flight! 🎉✈️
A new era of supersonic flight begins with Skunk Works® and @NASA. pic.twitter.com/iqtNWC6TxJ— Lockheed Martin (@LockheedMartin) October 28, 2025
Skunk Works will continue to lead the aircraft’s initial flight test campaign, working closely with NASA to expand the X-59’s flight envelope over the coming months.
Part of this test journey will include the X-59’s first supersonic flights, where the aircraft will achieve the optimal speed and altitude for a quiet boom.
This will enable NASA to operate the X-59 to measure its sound signature and conduct community acceptance testing.
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