A revolutionary aircraft design, the A-HyM Hypersonic Air Master, could one day make the journey from London to New York in just 45 minutes, thanks to its projected top speed of Mach 7.3—over 5,600 mph (9,000 kph).

Still in the conceptual stage, the futuristic jet is the brainchild of Spanish aerospace designer Oscar Viñals, renowned for his ambitious aviation visions. The A-HyM is designed to fly at an altitude of 98,425 feet (30,000 meters), nearly double that of today’s commercial planes, while carrying up to 170 passengers.

Figure 1. A Futuristic Hypersonic Jet Could Cut London–New York

“This concept would offer travelers not only a high-speed flight in optimal conditions but also the ability to ‘master time,’” Viñals said, noting that a London to Los Angeles trip could be completed in just 90 minutes, from boarding to arrival. Figure 1 shows A Futuristic Hypersonic Jet Could Cut London–New York

Engineered for Speed, Heat, and Quiet Operation

Achieving hypersonic flight involves more than just high velocity—it introduces extreme thermal stress. At Mach 7.3, air friction can generate surface temperatures around 1,832°F (1,000°C). To withstand this, Viñals proposes using heat-resistant materials like titanium and carbon fiber composites for the jet’s structure.

To address noise concerns, especially the disruptive sonic booms created at supersonic speeds, the A-HyM would incorporate a Sonic Boom Mitigation System. If successful, this technology could pave the way for hypersonic travel over land—something currently limited due to noise restrictions.

Advanced, Sustainable Propulsion

The A-HyM’s propulsion system is designed to be as innovative as the airframe itself. Powered by hydrogen fuel, the aircraft would be cleaner and more environmentally friendly than traditional jets. The engine system would combine turbojet, ramjet, and oblique detonation engine (ODE) technologies in a combined-cycle configuration, enabling efficient performance from takeoff to cruising at hypersonic speeds.

Redefining Air Travel Experience

Inside, passengers wouldn't peer through standard windows—instead, they’d enjoy virtual panoramic displays offering real-time external views, flight data, and immersive entertainment [1]. The cabin would be spacious, modern, and designed to adapt to the physiological demands of flying at such high speed and altitude.

Though still a concept, the A-HyM reflects a growing industry push toward ultra-fast, sustainable aviation. Technologies such as hydrogen propulsion, ODE engines, and sonic boom reduction—once limited to science fiction—are increasingly being explored by leading aerospace organizations worldwide.

If brought to life, the A-HyM could represent the next frontier in commercial air travel, combining speed, comfort, and environmental consciousness into a single, high-performance jet.

Reference:

1. https://interestingengineering.com/transportation/hypersonic-jet-concept-a-hym

Cite this article:

Keerthana S (2025), New Hypersonic Jet May Travel at Seven Times the Speed of Sound, Cutting Flight Time From New York To London to Just 45 Minutes, AnaTechMaz, pp.330