NASA's experimental X-59 aircraft underwent initial flight tests accompanied by a chase aircraft, an F/A-18 piloted by a fellow NASA test pilot. The chase pilot monitors the X-59's status, local weather, and assists communication, reducing workload on the test pilot and enhancing flight safety during these early, critical experimental flights.
The chase aircraft maintains a carefully controlled distance, close enough to effectively observe but safely separated from the X-59 to avoid risk. This coordinated two-ship approach allows NASA to explore the X-59's quiet supersonic capabilities under carefully managed conditions, with pilots alternating roles to gather operational experience.
Source & further reading
NASA Chase Aircraft Ensures X-59’s Safety in Flight ↗Source published 2026-01-20. This report was prepared with AI assistance from the linked primary-source material. Claims and limitations should be checked against the original announcement or research.