Spanish designer Oscar Vinals has introduced a supersonic aircraft model named the HSP Magnavem, capable of reaching speeds of 1,850 km/h, equipped with a small nuclear fusion reactor and designed to produce minimal noise.
Oscar Vinals’ supersonic aircraft design. (Photo: Oscar Vinals)
The aircraft, named HSP Magnavem, which means “Great Bird” in Latin, can achieve a speed of 1,850 km/h. This means a flight from London to New York would only take 3 hours, as reported by Sun on September 11. The aircraft features a sleek, arrowhead shape with two levels: the upper deck is designated for business and first-class passengers, while the lower deck caters to economy class travelers. First-class passengers can enjoy scenic views through the overhead windows equipped with adjustable brightness. The aircraft has a capacity of 500 passengers and is heavier than the largest commercial aircraft currently in operation, the Boeing 747-8 and Airbus A380.
Measuring 70 meters in length and weighing 590,000 kg, the HSP Magnavem will operate using four hybrid electric-hydrogen engines located at the rear of the fuselage. Power will be supplied by a small nuclear fusion reactor situated beneath the passenger cabin floor. Electricity will be transmitted to the aircraft’s battery, enabling it to ascend to an altitude of 15,400 meters. After reaching this height, the turbojet engines will activate, allowing the aircraft to achieve supersonic speeds. The HSP Magnavem will be equipped with artificial intelligence and a laser-guided navigation system to assist the crew in monitoring the engines and controlling the aircraft. With its monocoque body-wing design, the aircraft can also incorporate solar panels to enhance fuel efficiency.
While the Magnavem will be slightly slower than the legendary Concorde, which flew at a speed of 2,177 km/h for transatlantic flights, this new design aims to address the issues that led to the Concorde’s retirement in 2003, including noise pollution, high operating costs, and limited passenger capacity.
With significantly quieter engines, a larger passenger capacity, and more affordable ticket prices, designer Oscar Vinals hopes that the Magnavem can help usher the world back into a golden age of supersonic travel. Although there is no production information available yet, Vinals is optimistic that with technological advancements, his design will be selected and take to the skies in the future.
