NASA to Spearhead High-Speed Aircraft Testing Program Under New MACH Act

The Making Advancements in Commercial Hypersonics (MACH) Act greenlights NASA to set up a program focused on testing—but not developing—high-speed aircraft and hypersonic technologies. This means NASA will be facilitating the proving grounds for these cutting-edge aircraft, but it won't be funding the actual building of the tech.

Taking Flight: NASA's New Testing Program

The MACH Act directs NASA's Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate to create a strategic plan within 60 days of the Act's enactment. This plan will outline how NASA intends to provide testing opportunities for high-speed aircraft and related technologies. Think of it as NASA creating the ultimate test track for the next generation of super-fast planes. They are also required to coordinate with other mission directorates, the Secretary of Defense, and the FAA Administrator, so it's a team effort across government agencies.

Real-World Radar: Who Benefits?

For aerospace companies and researchers, this is a big deal. Imagine a small company with a revolutionary engine design for hypersonic flight. Previously, they might have struggled to find affordable and accessible ways to test their technology at extreme speeds. This program could provide the necessary infrastructure, potentially accelerating the development of these technologies. This could mean faster advancements in commercial aviation, and potentially even national security applications, as the Department of Defense is also involved. For a farmer relying on quick transport of perishable goods, or a business executive needing to cross continents rapidly, this could eventually translate to faster, more efficient travel and shipping options—though those are down-the-line possibilities.

Flight Restrictions: Limits and Challenges

There are a couple of key restrictions. First, while NASA can test these technologies, the MACH Act explicitly prohibits them from funding their development (SEC. 2). This could limit the program's impact, as companies still need to secure funding for the initial research and development phases. Second, the Act bars NASA from entering into agreements with any "entity of concern," "foreign business entity," or "foreign country of concern," (SEC. 2) referencing definitions from other acts. These terms are defined in 15 U.S.C. 4651(8)(A)(v) and 42 U.S.C. 19231(4)(C), but, in short, it limits international collaboration, potentially shutting out expertise and resources from certain countries.

Reporting Requirements: Keeping Congress in the Loop

NASA has to keep Congress informed. A report detailing the program's activities and strategic plan is due within 90 days of the Act's enactment, with annual progress reports starting one year later (SEC. 2). These reports will include the number and type of testing opportunities provided, giving Congress a clear view of the program's progress (or lack thereof).

The Bottom Line

The MACH Act sets the stage for faster development and testing of hypersonic tech, but with some built-in limitations. It’s a potential boost for U.S. aerospace, but the restrictions on funding and international partnerships could be a drag on innovation. Whether it truly takes off will depend on how effectively NASA can leverage its resources and navigate these constraints.