FAA OKs Supersonic Drones to Blast Past Mach 1 in New Mexico
Published Date: 4/13/2026
Notice
Summary
Hermeus Corporation got the green light from the FAA to fly their experimental drone faster than the speed of sound—Mach 1—during up to seven test flights over New Mexico’s White Sands Missile Range by the end of 2026. This means exciting supersonic flights at high altitudes (30,000+ feet) are officially allowed, with no big environmental worries. The FAA’s decision kicks in April 9, 2026, opening the door for some seriously speedy testing!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Hermeus Authorized for Supersonic Tests
The FAA granted Hermeus Corporation a Special Flight Authorization to exceed Mach 1 for developmental flight testing. The authorization covers up to seven supersonic test flights over White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, at or above 30,000 ft Mean Sea Level, with the petitioner requesting flights by December 31, 2026; the grant is effective April 9, 2026 and is limited to the conditions in the special flight authorization.
FAA Finds No Significant Environmental Impact
On March 27, 2026, the FAA relied on the Department of the Army’s March 2010 Environmental Impact Statement and determined that the proposed supersonic test flights would not significantly affect the quality of the human environment. That environmental finding applies to the Hermeus Mk 2.1 test flights planned over White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico.
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