The jet, which is nicknamed “Baby Boom”, is being touted as a replacement for the now defunct Concorde service and will offer the transatlantic trip for a $5,000 return fare.
The XB-1 Supersonic Demonstrator aircraft was presented by the Virgin boss at a launch event in Denver yesterday (November 15).
It is expected to have its first test flight next year in Southern California, Sky News reports.
Its creation is a joint development between Branson’s Virgin Galactic and Denver-based US firm Boom Technology.
"I have long been passionate about aerospace innovation and the development of high-speed commercial flights," said Branson.
"As an innovator in the space, Virgin Galactic’s decision to work with Boom was an easy one.
"We’re excited to have an option on Boom’s first 10 airframes.
"Through Virgin Galactic’s manufacturing arm, the Spaceship Company, we will provide engineering and manufacturing services, along with flight test support and operations as part of our shared ambitions."
Travelling at a speed of 1,451mph, the 40-seater aircraft is said to be 10% faster than Concorde and 2.6 times faster than current jetliners, Sky News reports.
Its interior will feature a single window seat on each side of the aisle and a personal overhead luggage compartment.
The jet’s development team has experience working for American aerospace manufacturer SpaceX, Boeing and Nasa.
"Sixty years after the dawn of the jet age, we’re still flying at 1960s speeds," said Blake Scholl, founder and chief executive of Boom Technology.
"Concorde’s designers didn’t have the technology for affordable supersonic travel, but now we do."
