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Supersonic Dream
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Program Overview
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NOVA
takes a look at the world's first supersonic jet, the Concorde, and its place
in aviation history.
The program:
follows Britain's and France's independent bids to build the jet and
explains how rising development costs led to a partnership between the two
countries. looks at how costs skyrocketed during the plane's 10-year development,
eventually totaling £1.4 billion, ten times the original estimate. reviews some of the plane's notable technological developments, including
its air intake, jet engine, and electronics package. notes the public's continuing fascination with the plane ever since its
maiden flight in 1969. reports early successes of the plane that projected a fleet of 250
aircraft. notes how sentiment toward the plane began to change during an
international sales tour that met with growing environmental concerns about the
sonic booms created during supersonic flight. follows the Concorde's struggles to survive, noting key turning points
such as securing landing rights in New York, raising fares, and targeting new
clientele. looks at American efforts to build a supersonic jet. traces the events that led to the Concorde's retirement in 2003,
including the launch of the Boeing 747, the 2000 crash of France's Concorde,
and the 2001 Word Trade Center attacks that resulted in the death of many of
the plane's regular clientele.
Taping Rights: Can be used up to one year after the program is taped off the air.
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