ICAO continues its efforts towards developing a Standard for future supersonic aircraft, and discussions continue on the sonic boom measurement schemes and procedures. The goal is to establish technical flight test procedures for enroute (sonic boom) noise certification. These would be in addition to the certification requirements for the landing and takeoff (LTO) conditions.

During the CAEP/11 cycle (2016-2019), progress has been made on identifying certification measurement locations for assessing sonic boom noise on the ground; selecting an appropriate noise metric for use in a Standard that assesses sonic boom noise and shows favourable correlation between outdoor measurement and indoor human response; and evaluating the benefits of using sonic boom predictions in supersonic noise certification in addition to physical measurements. Research Focal Points (RFPs) also continue to inform the work of CAEP with details on important research associated with supersonic flight and guide the selection of metrics and measurement locations.

Regarding LTO Noise, CAEP recommended that an exploratory study using currently available data be undertaken during the CAEP/12 cycle (2019-2022). The results of the study are intended to provide a better understanding of airport noise impacts resulting from the introduction of supersonic aircraft.

It is anticipated that the certification of a supersonic aeroplane could occur in the 2020-2025 timeframe.