Why We Never Got To Fly In The Concorde

The dream of flying supersonic with the Boeing 2707 never took off—and here’s why:

1. Sky-High Costs
   Reaching supersonic speeds while seating nearly 300 passengers required cutting-edge design. The 2707 needed four GE4 turbojet engines and heat-resistant materials, making it expensive and difficult to build.

   

2. Cramped Comfort
   Flying at high altitudes demanded extra pressurization, which led to tiny 6-inch windows. Boeing tried to enhance the experience with 12-inch internal panes and retractable TVs every sixth row, but the interiors still felt confined.

   

3. Sonic Booms Backlash
   The deafening sonic booms were a major hurdle. Tests over Oklahoma City caused daily disturbances, leading to thousands of complaints and property damage claims. Critics argued it harmed workers and those with health conditions.

   

4. Environmental Fears
   Concerns about ozone depletion fueled opposition. Research, including an MIT study, warned that nitrogen oxide emissions and water vapor from the 2707’s engines could harm the stratosphere.

   

5. Funding Cuts
   Despite President Nixon’s support, Congress pulled the plug. The Senate and House both denied further funding, sealing the 2707’s fate.

Ultimately, a mix of high costs, public resistance, and environmental concerns grounded the supersonic dream.