On a quiet Virginia afternoon, the Military Aviation Museum‘s Messerschmitt Me 262 replica returned to the skies for the first time in over a decade. The museum’s chief pilot, Mike Spalding, took off at 3:14 PM and landed safely at 3:45 PM, marking a significant milestone in the aircraft’s journey back to operational status. Back in February, the Military Aviation Museum announced that its Me 262 replica was on track to return to flight, with the goal of making an appearance at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2025 this July. Yesterday, March 28th, at Suffolk Executive Airport in Virginia, the aircraft took a major step closer to achieving that goal.
The museum’s maintenance team, led by Ike and Alison Burchinal, dedicated extensive effort to restoring the aircraft’s airworthiness. Just ten days ago, Mike Spalding conducted a series of engine runs, taxi tests, and landing gear swings—critical steps in preparing the aircraft for flight. “The test flight went well, so the next steps are to keep flying it. We don’t anticipate any major setbacks from where we are today,” said Keegan Chetwynd, Director of the Military Aviation Museum. “The biggest priority now is simply to get the airplane out flying so people can enjoy it with us.”
Several air shows have already expressed interest in hosting the aircraft, and the museum encourages event organizers to reach out for booking opportunities. Those interested can contact the airshow coordinator via email for details. Additionally, the museum is planning a special public event in Virginia Beach this April, offering aviation enthusiasts the chance to see the Me 262 up close. Those interested in attending can join the museum’s mailing list to receive early access to event details.
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.
With AirVenture 2025 in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, as its target public flying debut, the museum team is working diligently to ensure the aircraft is fully prepared. While challenges remain, optimism is high. Stay tuned for further updates on the museum’s blog, social media, and Vintage Aviation News as this historic warbird continues its long-awaited return to the skies. For more information about the Military Aviation Museum, visit www.militaryaviationmuseum.org.
