The X-59, a bizarre jet with an anteater nose and a camera for a cockpit, promises to redefine air travel by taming sonic booms. NASA's X-planes, like the legendary Bell X-1, have pushed the boundaries of flight since 1947. Today, the X-59 aims to fly supersonically over US towns without disrupting residents. But as drones proliferate, is there still a role for crewed X-planes?

Professor Guy Gratton argues that human pilots are irreplaceable, despite the allure of drones. He points out that drones require significant ground support, making them less cost-effective than piloted planes for certain tests.

NASA's Peter Coen explains that the X-59's goals are focused and achievable, unlike uncrewed alternatives which could add complexity and cost. Meanwhile, a new UK technology demonstrator, a joint project with Italy and Japan, aims to prove cutting-edge ideas for future fighters in the 2030s.

The human element remains crucial to test flights, according to Tony Godbold. Pilots provide vital feedback that models and simulators cannot match. As the X-59 soars, it may just prove that some things are better left to the human touch.