Boom Supersonic on Friday said it flew its XB-1 supersonic demonstrator for the first time. Operating from the Mojave Air & Space Port, the aircraft reached an altitude of 7,120 feet and a speed of 238 knots.

Like the company’s Overture supersonic airliner due for first flight in 2027, the XB-1 uses carbon fiber composites, advanced avionics, digitally optimized aerodynamics, and an advanced supersonic propulsion system.

The propulsion system became a subject of some controversy after Rolls-Royce signed an “engagement agreement” to explore the technical requirements for powering the Overture and told AIN that it reached a decision not to further participate in the program.

“We’ve completed our contract with Boom and delivered various engineering studies for their Overture supersonic program,” Rolls-Royce said in a statement. “After careful consideration, Rolls-Royce has determined that the commercial aviation supersonic market is not currently a priority for us and, therefore, will not pursue further work on the program at this time. It has been a pleasure to work with the Boom team and we wish them every success in the future.”

Undeterred, Boom announced in late 2022 that it had formed a team of engine designers, an additive manufacturer, and a turbine engine maintenance specialist to help develop a home-grown engine called the Symphony, four of which would power the Overture.

Two decades after the Concorde’s retirement, the first flight of XB-1 marks the return of a civil supersonic aircraft to the skies and, according to Boom, paves the way for the revival of mainstream supersonic travel. The XB-1 program provides the foundation for the design and development of the Overture, the proposed 64- to 80-seat supersonic airliner capable of speeds of Mach 1.7. Boom’s schedule calls for a rollout of the Overture in 2026 and first flight in 2027. The company now estimates that it can win certification by the end of the decade.