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Sonic boom in Salzgitter: Citizens frightened by Bundeswehr tornado!
On October 27, 2025, a Bundeswehr tornado fighter aircraft caused a sonic boom in Salzgitter, which was widely reported by local residents.
Sonic boom in Salzgitter: Citizens frightened by Bundeswehr tornado!
On October 27, 2025, the citizens of Salzgitter were able to experience an unexpected spectacle that appeared threatening to some neighbors. A loud bang, which was heard by many residents in the area, caused uncertainty and speculation. The first rumors that Salzgitter AG could be behind the noise were quickly refuted. Rather, it was a supersonic flight of a Bundeswehr Tornado fighter aircraft, like news38.de reported.
Between 2:17 p.m. and 2:20 p.m., the tornado broke the sound barrier on its route from Schleswig to Ingolstadt, reaching impressive speeds of up to 725 knots (approx. 1,343 km/h). From altitudes of over 11,000 meters, the sonic boom not only caused vibrating windows and shaking doors, but also frightened pets. Reports of this phenomenon came from various districts such as Fredenberg, Bruchmachtersen and Gebhardshagen as well as from the Wolfenbüttel district and the Harz.
The physics of supersonic flight
What exactly happens when a plane breaks the sound barrier? Supersonic flight occurs when the flight speed is greater than the speed of sound, which corresponds to a Mach number above 1. The speed of sound in dry air at 15 °C can be defined as around 1,225 km/h. Since the speed of sound decreases with increasing altitude, it is about 1,062 km/h at an altitude of 11 km, like Wikipedia explained.
The sonic boom is caused by a funnel-shaped pressure wave that spreads behind the aircraft when the sound barrier is broken. This pressure wave can reach a width of up to 80 kilometers. When it comes to larger aircraft, a “double boom” can even occur, with the sound waves being audible across the entire flight path – a phenomenon called a “carpet of bangs.”
Rules and responsibilities
The operation of supersonic flights is subject to strict rules in order to minimize the impact on the population. The Bundeswehr is aware of this issue and therefore ensures that such flights are specifically planned to avoid densely populated areas. Nevertheless, the Bundeswehr also sees limits: “The operational readiness of the armed forces has priority,” said the officials. Supersonic flights are not only essential for the Bundeswehr to test the functionality of engines and aircraft systems, but also for pilot exercises. How bmlv.gv.at reported, these training flights marked as visible are of great importance.
In summary, it remains to be said: While the bang alarmed many unsettled residents in Salzgitter, it is important to know that such supersonic flights serve the safety and operational readiness of the air force. An impressive example of modern aviation technology that, although it causes noise, is also essential for the safety of the population.