After over a decade grounded, the Military Aviation Museum’s meticulously restored Messerschmitt Me 262 has successfully returned to the skies, marking a significant milestone in historical aviation preservation. The iconic World War II-era jet, renowned as the world’s first operational jet-powered fighter, took its long-awaited test flight on 28th March 2025 at Suffolk Executive Airport, Virginia.
A Momentous Flight
At precisely 3:14 PM, chief pilot Mike Spalding lifted off in the museum’s Me 262 replica, completing a smooth 31-minute flight before landing safely at 3:45 PM. The successful test paves the way for the aircraft’s participation in airshows across the United States, with an eagerly anticipated public debut at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2025, the world’s largest aviation gathering, scheduled for July.
Restoration Efforts: A Labour of Passion
The restoration was led by the museum’s dedicated maintenance team, spearheaded by Ike and Alison Burchinal, who spent years ensuring the aircraft’s airworthiness. Final preparations included a series of rigorous engine runs, taxi tests, and landing gear swings, conducted just ten days before the test flight.
Keegan Chetwynd, Director of the Military Aviation Museum, expressed his enthusiasm for the project:
“The test flight went well, and now our priority is to keep flying the aircraft. We are excited for aviation enthusiasts to witness this incredible piece of history in action.”
Upcoming Showcases and Public Events
Several airshows and aviation events have already expressed interest in featuring the Me 262, with the museum actively seeking additional bookings. Enthusiasts will also have a unique opportunity to witness the aircraft up close at a special public event in Virginia Beach this April.
For those eager to track the Me 262’s progress and event appearances, updates will be shared via:
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The Museum’s Blog & Social Media
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Vintage Aviation News
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Exclusive Mailing List Announcements
The Legacy of the Me 262
The Messerschmitt Me 262, developed by Nazi Germany during World War II, revolutionised aerial combat with its twin jet-engine design, allowing it to outpace and outmanoeuvre propeller-driven aircraft of its time. Although introduced late in the war, it remains a symbol of early jet aviation and a technological marvel.
With the Military Aviation Museum’s dedication, this legendary aircraft is once again poised to capture the imagination of aviation enthusiasts worldwide. Stay tuned for further updates as the Me 262 takes its rightful place among the skies once more!
For a deeper look into the history of this remarkable aircraft and its journey back to flight, Richard Mallory Allnutt, the museum’s Curator of Digital Media, has provided an in-depth feature, which can be accessed HERE.
