X-59 Soars: A New Era in Supersonic Flight Begins

Rhea-AI Summary

Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) and NASA completed the first flight of the X-59 on October 28, 2025, launching from Plant 42 in Palmdale and landing near NASA Armstrong in Edwards, California.

The flight verified initial flying qualities and air data performance and set the program on track for upcoming supersonic test flights to measure a reduced sonic signature intended to enable commercial supersonic flight over land. Skunk Works will lead the initial flight test campaign with NASA to expand the X-59 flight envelope and conduct community acceptance testing for data-driven noise thresholds.

Positive

• First flight completed on October 28, 2025
• Initial flying qualities and air data performance verified
• Program advances to planned supersonic flights for quiet-boom measurement
• Enables NASA community acceptance testing and data for noise thresholds
• Demonstrates continued Skunk Works leadership in supersonic R&D

Negative

• None.

PALMDALE, Calif., Oct. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Lockheed Martin Skunk Works^® (NYSE: LMT), in partnership with NASA, successfully completed the first flight of the X-59, a revolutionary, quiet supersonic aircraft designed to pave the way for faster commercial air travel. 

The X-59 took off from Skunk Works' facility at U.S. Air Force Plant 42 in Palmdale, California, before landing near NASA's Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California. 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.

"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." 

The X-59 is a one-of-a-kind supersonic aircraft designed to demonstrate the ability 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. The X-59's successful development and flight testing will inform the establishment of new data-driven acceptable noise thresholds related to supersonic commercial flight over land, paving the way for a new generation of supersonic aircraft that can efficiently and sustainably transport passengers and cargo twice as fast as aircraft today. 

"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. 

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. 

This achievement demonstrates Lockheed Martin's commitment to pushing the boundaries of aerospace innovation and its dedication to creating cutting-edge solutions for the future of flight. 

About Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin is a global defense technology company driving innovation and advancing scientific discovery. Our all-domain mission solutions and 21st Century Security^® vision accelerate the delivery of transformative technologies to ensure those we serve always stay ahead of ready. More information at Lockheedmartin.com.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/x-59-soars-a-new-era-in-supersonic-flight-begins-302597417.html

SOURCE Lockheed Martin Aeronautics

FAQ

What did Lockheed Martin (LMT) announce on October 28, 2025 about the X-59 first flight?

Lockheed Martin announced the X-59 completed its first flight on October 28, 2025, verifying initial flying qualities and air data performance.

How will the X-59 tests affect Lockheed Martin (LMT) and NASA plans for supersonic flight?

The X-59's tests will provide data-driven noise thresholds and enable community acceptance testing to inform potential supersonic flight over land.

When will Lockheed Martin (LMT) and NASA begin the X-59's first supersonic flights?

Skunk Works will expand the X-59 flight envelope over the coming months, including the program's first planned supersonic flights to measure the quiet-boom signature.

Where did the X-59's first flight originate and land for Lockheed Martin (LMT)?

The X-59 took off from U.S. Air Force Plant 42, Palmdale and landed near NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center, Edwards, California.

What did the X-59 first flight verify for Lockheed Martin (LMT)?

The flight verified the aircraft's initial flying qualities and air data performance en route to a safe landing.

What is the broader goal of the X-59 program for Lockheed Martin (LMT)?

The program aims to demonstrate a reduced sonic signature to support policy and regulations that could permit supersonic commercial flight over land.