The triangular aircraft model designed by Oscar Viñal resembles a spacecraft and promises to nearly halve transatlantic flight times.
Spanish designer Oscar Viñal has introduced the concept of a wingless supersonic hydrogen jet that can achieve speeds of Mach 1.5 (1,852 km/h) and carry 300 passengers, as reported by Interesting Engineering on May 15. This speed is twice as fast as modern commercial jets, allowing the aircraft to fly between London and New York in under 5 hours, compared to the current 8-hour transatlantic flights.
The Sky OV supersonic aircraft has a speed of 1,852 km/h. (Photo: Oscar Viñal).
The aircraft, named Sky OV, features a modern design reminiscent of a spacecraft. Its triangular shape means that the fuselage and wings are seamlessly connected, creating a larger structure. Consequently, this wingless design offers a more spacious cabin compared to traditional jets. The lack of wings also reduces drag and enhances fuel efficiency, according to Viñal.
The aircraft’s propulsion system will operate on hydrogen fuel combined with electricity, making zero-emission supersonic flight a reality. Instead of using a conventional jet engine, the power comes from a pulse detonation engine (PDE) coupled with a turbojet engine. The exterior of the Sky OV will be coated in quantum dots, allowing it to harness solar energy. The vehicle will also be equipped with AI-supported gliding wings to improve overall performance.
“The entire new aircraft model resembles the ‘flying wing’ design used by military jets such as the B-2, but the integrated wing-fuselage structure offers greater volume in the middle section,” Viñal stated.
The designer noted that this aircraft will have a slightly larger wingspan than a Boeing 747 and can operate at current airport terminals. The Sky OV is also lighter, producing less noise and emissions, while having lower operating costs than conventional transport aircraft. It boasts a range of 16,600 km and a cruising altitude of 13,000 meters.
In addition to its high speed, this luxurious vehicle will feature various opulent amenities for passengers, including sleeping quarters, bathrooms, and even in-flight chefs. The Sky OV will have a spacious cabin with window curtains and sliding doors. While some military aircraft and drones can fly at supersonic speeds, the Sky OV aims to revive the legend of the Concorde and make supersonic travel a reality.
