Boom Supersonic names superfactory tooling, automation supplier

Boom Supersonic, the company planning to build the world's fastest airliner has selected Advanced Integration Technology (AIT) as the tooling and automation provider and integrator for the Overture final assembly line. This strategic partnership is an important prerequisite for aircraft production at the Overture superfactory in Greensboro, North Carolina. Site preparation at the superfactory is already underway, and groundbreaking is on track for December 2022.

Boom's purchase agreement with AIT spans the design, fabrication, and installation of custom tooling for the Overture superfactory. AIT will provide an end-to-end system for the superfactory, creating transportation and positioning tools for fuselage assembly, wing assembly, wing-to-fuselage joining, and final assembly. Major hardware provided by AIT will include automated drilling machinery, mobile transport equipment, and setups for positioning and joining setups. Boom is prioritizing design and procurement of long-lead-time sections of the tooling suite, helping to ensure that the Overture program remains on track to enter production in 2024.

"Advanced Integration Technology is a recognized leader in aircraft assembly tooling, and we are excited to be working with them to prepare the superfactory for Overture production," said Chris Taylor, vice president of manufacturing at Boom. "This order will help ensure that the superfactory is ready for Overture's manufacturing launch in 2024."

Overture will carry passengers at 2x the speed of today's fastest passenger jets and is designed to run on 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

"We are honored that Boom has selected Advanced Integration Technology to design, produce and integrate Overture's superfactory final assembly line. AIT is proud to use our industry leading expertise in aerospace production system integration to support Boom's vision of supersonic travel," said Michael Wellham, AIT president and COO.

Boom recently announced three Tier 1 suppliers that will contribute to key systems on Overture including Collins Aerospace, Safran Landing Systems, and Eaton. Boom is in advanced supplier conversations for several other major components of the aircraft, and plans to announce its engine partner later this year. In August, American Airlines placed deposits on 20 Overture aircraft and pre-ordered an additional 40, bringing Overture's order book to $26 billion including orders and options.