SUPERSONIC TRANSPORT DEVELOPMENT CONSIDERATIONS

The impact of supersonic commercial service to be provided by the Concorde and TU 144 SST is going to demonstrate throughout the world the advantages offered by supersonic travel for both business and recreation. Public acceptance will stimulate interest to proceed with a second generation design that meets updated economic and ecological standards. This paper reviews some of the design considerations that are pertinent to this next SST aircraft. Design variables include productivity and cost as affected by cruise speed choice, range and payload selection, and impact of advanced airframe and propulsion technology. A new concept SST is described, and its operational characteristics are discussed; the design meets all economic and ecological goals. A broadened technology data base will be needed; current technology study efforts are making progress, but acceleration of this phase should be considered. Beyond the technology development phase, the SST, or any other new long range transport program, will need new and innovative means for providing financial support. The problem and a possible solution is discussed. Timing for the next generation transport is examined in light of current economic affairs, existing aircraft in service, and lead time needed for SST development.