This is the world’s first operational jet fighter, the Messerschmitt Me 262. In 1944 it was years ahead of its time, flying faster than any piston-engine aircraft. Today only a handful still fly worldwide, mostly modern reproductions built to the original design. The big change is the engines. The wartime Jumo 004s were powerful but often failed after just a few hours. Modern examples use reliable jet engines hidden in replica casings, keeping the look and performance without the breakdowns. So

I bet you’ve never seen a Messerschmitt Me 262 landing before! Here’s one coming into land at Oshkosh and just look at what’s lining up on the runway once it’s on the ground. It really is history in the making - a first generation jet fighter landing before a fifth generation steals the show! #messerschmitt #luftwaffe #flugzeug #aviation | AvPay.aero

2.1M views · 376 reactions | The incredible Messerschmitt Me 262 walk around and takeoff/landing at The Royal International Air Tattoo with thanks to Flugmuseum Messerschmitt for allowing access to the aircraft. https://www.jetsprops.com/fighters/me-262-the-first-combat-deployed-jet-fighter.html | Jets 'n' Props | Facebook

Messerschmitt ME 262 - Breathtaking video of an American B17 bomber crew's first encounter with the Messerschmitt Me 262, the world’s first operational jet powered fighter aircraft. One of the crew's says: What was that? What the hell was that?! It went by like we are standing still! As you can hear the jet turbines sound. The Messerschmitt Me 262 was introduced into service in April of 1944. Soon the American and British military staff learned to fear this new German aircraft. Me 262s were extr