The Stormbird Returns to the Skies
10th May 2025
The Stormbird Returns to the Skies. On May 10, 2025, aviation enthusiasts gathered at Chesapeake Regional Airport to witness history in motion as the Military Aviation Museum unveiled its meticulously crafted Messerschmitt Me 262 replica. This event marked the aircraft’s first public appearance since its return to airworthy condition—a rare opportunity to see the world’s first operational jet fighter take to the skies once more.
The program featured a static display, allowing attendees to examine the aircraft up close, capture photographs, and engage with museum staff and restoration experts. The highlight of the day was a thrilling flight demonstration, showcasing the Me 262’s sleek lines and unmistakable jet roar—an evocative reminder of its revolutionary role in World War II aviation.
This particular Me 262, one of only a handful of flying replicas worldwide, is powered by modern General Electric CJ610 engines cleverly concealed within authentic-looking nacelles, preserving the aircraft’s iconic silhouette while ensuring safe and reliable operation.
The event also granted ticket holders full-day access to the Military Aviation Museum in Pungo, Virginia, home to one of the most extensive collections of vintage military aircraft in the United States.
Fly High Aviation Media would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Military Aviation Museum, Chesapeake Regional Airport, and all organizers and volunteers involved in the May 10th roll-out of the Me 262 "Stormbird."
The event was exceptionally well-coordinated and offered an outstanding experience for attendees, aviation enthusiasts, and media alike. Your professionalism and dedication were evident at every stage, and we are grateful for your support in ensuring the day ran smoothly.
On behalf of all of us at Fly High Aviation Media, thank you.
Sincerely,
Harry Morrow, FHAM
Fly High Aviation Media
Photography: Harry Morrow.
A Wartime Echo at Chesapeake
During the May 10, 2025 roll-out ceremony at Chesapeake Regional Airport, the Military Aviation Museum’s Me 262 replica emerged from its hangar under tow by the museum’s fully restored Sd.Kfz.2 Kettenkrad. At the controls was Fighter Factory mechanic Sean Ennis, guiding the half-track motorcycle with precision and care.
The scene was strikingly evocative of archival images from the final days of World War II, when Kettenkrads were routinely used to maneuver Me 262s across airfields. This authentic pairing of aircraft and vehicle offered attendees a rare glimpse into the operational logistics of the Luftwaffe’s jet age, brought to life with remarkable attention to detail.
Meet the Me-262 Stormbird
Following the dramatic roll-out of the Military Aviation Museum’s Me 262 replica at Chesapeake Regional Airport, attendees were invited onto the ramp for an up-close encounter with the historic jet. The crowd was granted unrestricted access to view and photograph the aircraft, creating a rare and immersive experience for aviation enthusiasts and historians alike.
The unveiling was followed by an engaging Q&A session featuring key figures behind the aircraft’s restoration and return to flight. Seated from right to left were Museum Director and CEO Keegan Chetwynd, Chief Pilot Mike Spalding, and contracted restoration specialists Ike and Alison Burchinal. Their insights offered a behind-the-scenes look at the technical challenges, historical significance, and emotional triumphs that brought the Stormbird back to life.
Final Preparations for Flight
As the morning sun cast long shadows across the ramp at Chesapeake Regional Airport, final preparations were underway for the Me 262’s long-awaited return to the skies. Ground crews moved with practiced efficiency, conducting pre-flight checks and fueling procedures, while the aircraft stood poised—its sleek, swept-wing silhouette a striking contrast against the modern backdrop.
The Stormbird’s twin CJ610 jet engines, concealed within faithfully recreated nacelles, awaited ignition. The atmosphere was electric with anticipation as spectators gathered along the flight line, cameras ready, hearts pounding. For many, this was more than a demonstration—it was a resurrection of history.
The Stormbird Taxi’s out, as the engines wound up with a piercing whine, a hush fell over the crowd. The Me 262, shimmering in the late morning light, began taxi out to the runway, wheels skimming the tarmac with increasing urgency. With a surge of jet power and history reborn.
A Moment Suspended in Time, Stormbird lifted gracefully into the air, its twin CJ610 jet engines slicing through the Virginia sky with a familiar yet awe-inspiring roar. Spectators erupted in a chorus of camera shutters and audible gasps—many visibly moved by the sight.
For veterans, historians, and aviation enthusiasts alike, this was far more than a demonstration flight. It was the living spirit of aviation heritage reborn. For a fleeting moment, time folded in on itself, and the dawn of the jet age soared once again.
Mission Complete: A Graceful Return, with the mission successfully flown, Chief Pilot Mike Spalding brought the Me 262 back to earth in a smooth, confident landing that drew admiration from all corners of the ramp. The aircraft touched down with poise, its twin CJ610 engines winding down as it rolled to a gentle stop.
As he taxied the Stormbird back toward its parking position, Spalding offered the crowd a warm, appreciative wave—an understated gesture that spoke volumes. It was a moment of shared triumph between pilot and public, a fitting close to a day steeped in reverence, history, and high-performance flight.
Let’s step back into history, here comes a visual time capsule, evoking the time period when the ME-262 Stormbird was around near the end of WW2, above is a montage of digital black & white images to set the tone.
As Editor of Fly High Aviation Media, I stood among the crowd that day—not just as a journalist, but as someone profoundly moved by what unfolded. The flight of the Me 262 Stormbird was more than a tribute; it was a testament to passion, precision, and the enduring power of aviation history.
I would like to extend my deepest thanks to the Military Aviation Museum, the Chesapeake Regional Airport team, the Fighter Factory, and every individual—staff and volunteer—who made this moment possible. Through your tireless efforts, you did more than restore an aircraft. You reignited wonder.
Until next time,
Harry Morrow, FHAM
Editor, Fly High Aviation Media