Stormbird Returns: Military Aviation Museum’s Messerschmitt Me 262 Roll-Out and Flight Demonstration Set for May 10

The Military Aviation Museum is set to unveil the return to flight of its Messerschmitt Me 262 during a special event at Chesapeake Regional Airport on May 10, 2025

Moreno Aguiari
Moreno Aguiari
Test Pilot Wolfgang Czaia flying the museum's Me-262 in 2013. Photo by Luigino Caliaro
Alan Armstrong 729

The Military Aviation Museum, located in Pungo, Virginia, is set to host an event celebrating the return to flight of its Messerschmitt Me 262, the world’s first operational jet-powered fighter. Aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike are invited to witness this milestone on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., during a special roll-out and flight demonstration. Tickets can be purchased HERE.

Military Aviation Museum Successfully Runs Engines on Its Me 262 Replica 2722
Photo via Military Aviation Museum

The aircraft, a meticulously built reproduction of the legendary German jet, has recently returned to airworthy condition. Known as the “Stormbird,” the Me 262 played a pivotal role in aviation history and remains one of the most iconic aircraft of World War II. The Museum’s example is one of only a few flying replicas in the world and closely mirrors the design and performance of the original.

MA 5992 Richard Mallory Allnutt photo Hamilton Air Show Mount Hope Ontario June 15 2013 small
The museum’s Me-262 at the Hamilton Air Show in Mount Hope, Ontario – June 15, 2013. Photo by Richard Mallory Allnutt

The event will take place at Chesapeake Regional Airport, located at 2800 Airport Drive, Chesapeake, Virginia. Because the Me 262 does not operate from the Museum’s main airfield in Pungo, this venue offers a rare opportunity for the public to see the aircraft up close at a Museum-organized event. Attendees will be able to view the aircraft on static display, take photographs, and experience a live flight demonstration.

IMG 6564 Zachary Baughman photo Me 262 first post restorationf light March 28 2025
A beautiful image of the 262 in the spring air. (image by Zachary Baughman)

This appearance marks the Me 262’s first public showing since its return to flight, making it a highly anticipated occasion in the warbird and vintage aviation communities. The event ticket also includes all-day admission to the Military Aviation Museum in Pungo on the same day, allowing guests to explore one of the nation’s premier collections of historic military aircraft. Admission is free for Museum Members with advance registration. A limited number of VIP Stormbird Supporter Tickets are available for those seeking an enhanced event experience, including premium viewing areas and exclusive perks.

Messerschmitt Me 262 Flies Again Military Aviation Museums Replica Returns to the Skies 5
Chief Pilot Mike Spalding taking off in the museum’s Messerschmitt Me 262 Replica. Photo by Zack Baughman

The Stormbird’s return to flight is more than just an aviation event—it is a tribute to engineering heritage, aviation history, and the legacy of innovation. Visitors to Chesapeake on May 10th will witness firsthand the roar of jet power and the revival of a wartime legend. Tickets can be purchased HERE. For more information about the Military Aviation Museum, visit www.militaryaviationmuseum.org.

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Born in Milan, Italy, Moreno moved to the U.S. in 1999 to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. His aviation passion began early, inspired by his uncle, an F-104 Starfighter Crew Chief, and his father, a military traffic controller. Childhood adventures included camping outside military bases and watching planes at Aeroporto Linate. In 1999, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, to obtain his commercial pilot license, a move that became permanent. With 24 years in the U.S., he now flies full-time for a Part 91 business aviation company in Atlanta. He is actively involved with the Commemorative Air Force, the D-Day Squadron, and other aviation organizations. He enjoys life with his supportive wife and three wonderful children.
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