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Hermeus Quarterhorse Cleared for Supersonic Flight Tests

April 14, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

Hermeus receives FAA Special Airworthiness Certificate for Quarterhorse Mk 2.1.
Certification allows for supersonic flight testing at Spaceport America.
Quarterhorse Mk 2.1 is the largest and most capable aircraft in the program.
Hermeus aims to achieve hypersonic flight with in-house engine development.

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Strategic Implications

This certification may indicate the FAA's growing confidence in Hermeus' supersonic ambitions, which could pave the way for further investment and partnerships in the high-speed aircraft sector. The development of the Chimera engine suggests a long-term focus on hypersonic capabilities, which may have significant implications for both military and commercial aviation.

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What Happened

FAA Greenlights Experimental Certification for Unmanned Aircraft

Hermeus has announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Special Airworthiness Certificate in the Experimental Category for its unmanned Quarterhorse Mk 2.1 aircraft, clearing the way for supersonic flight testing. The certification is a significant milestone for the company, which is working towards achieving supersonic flight and eventually developing high-speed military aircraft and a hypersonic passenger aircraft. The Quarterhorse program is built around a rapid iteration model, with the Mk 2.1 being the first aircraft in the Mark 2 phase focused on achieving and expanding the supersonic flight envelope. This development was first reported by AeroTime.

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