Following its initial test flight in October 2025, NASA’s X-59 experimental aircraft underwent extensive maintenance and inspections before preparations for its second flight in March 2026. This phase involves engine run testing and sets the stage for progressive envelope expansion—pushing the aircraft to higher speeds and altitudes to evaluate safety and performance.
Test pilot Jim "Clue" Less will conduct the flight at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center, accompanied by observation from a NASA F/A-18 piloted by Nils Larson. The team’s methodical approach underscores the complex validations necessary for pioneering quiet supersonic technology.
Source & further reading
NASA’s X-59 Prepares for Second Flight ↗Source published 2026-03-17. 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.