One Giant Leap Backward: The Restriction of Overland Supersonic Aviation.

This article explores the regulatory structure governing civil supersonic transportation in the United States. It discusses the history of the Concorde and its retirement due to financial and safety concerns. The article argues that the current regulations, which prohibit supersonic flight over land, are outdated and hinder technological advancements in the field. It also examines the tension between federal policy goals and the ban on civil supersonic flights over land. The article concludes by calling for a reevaluation of the regulations to promote innovation and efficiency in aviation. It highlights advancements in technology, such as the Quiet Spike, that reduce the noise of sonic booms, and discusses economic impediments to further advances in supersonic flight. The article suggests potential solutions, such as granting exclusive rights to the first mover or government initiatives to encourage and reward supersonic advances. Overall, it argues for a review and amendment of the current regulatory framework to reflect the advancements that have made supersonic flight quieter and more feasible. [Extracted from the article]