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Reaction Engines, a UK-based company, is developing A2, a Mach 5 civil transport plane that runs on hydrogen. The design calls for a precooled engine concept, called “scimitar” (developed by Reaction Engines), which exploits the unique thermodynamic properties of liquid hydrogen.

Unlike the Concorde, the A2 has exceptional range (approx 20,000 km, both subsonic and supersonic) and is therefore able to service a large number of routes while avoiding supersonic overflight of populated areas. And its good subsonic performance enables it to service conventional overland routes.

 The A2 is sized to carry 300 passengers, which is a typical supersonic transport design that achieves a competitive seat/mile cost. Currently the airframe does not contain windows, due to the sustained heat the plane would have to endure during flight. The only window technology that can withstand the required heat is presently only available on the U.S. Space Shuttle, which is too heavy to be used on the A2.

Analysis of costs suggests that the average ticket price would be comparable to an existing business class ticket.