The argument for the supersonic transport seems to run as follows: it offers a new and faster way to go places; it might not cost more to do so; it ought to create new wealth, and its influence on human affairs, although not clearly foreseeable, surely will be beneficial. There is a certain amount of evidence to warrant optimism; there are issues of national prestige and well-being; the technical challenge is exciting; so “ Let us somehow find finance and proceed.”

Operators agree that the design and operational problems of supersonic aircraft, one of the possible great advances in transport, are complex and interesting; they might also speculate on its likely social implications, though this is an unrewarding pastime. The operators accept that the aircraft probably will be developed, for it is as much a challenge of the times as have been all the great innovations of routes and vehicles from Columbus right through to our day; but as has always been the case, before any commitment, they must seek assurance of ultimate economic soundness.