The story
The Me 262 reached combat in 1944 with a swept wing, two Jumo turbojets and a speed no Allied fighter could match. It came too late and in too few numbers to change the war, but it changed everything that came after it. No original Me 262 flies. A small number of close reproductions, built in the United States and now flying in Germany and America, carry modern GE engines inside period-correct nacelles.
The Me 262's Jumo 004 engines needed a teardown after about 25 hours, and pilots had to move the throttles gently or the engines could flame out or overheat.
Quick answers
How do you identify a Me 262?
A triangular fuselage cross-section, two engine nacelles slung under a swept wing, and a tail set high on the fin. The shape of the first jet fighter is unmistakable once seen.
What does a Me 262 sound like?
The flying reproductions use GE CJ610 turbojets, the Learjet 23's engine: a shrill, classic early-jet howl.
How fast is the Me 262?
Top speed is 486 kts.
How many people does the Me 262 carry?
Typical configuration: Single-seat fighter (reproductions include a two-seater).
How far can the Me 262 fly?
Range is about 570 nmi.
How big is the Me 262?
It is 34 ft 9 in long and 41 ft 4 in across the wings.
When did the Me 262 first fly?
Its first flight was in 1942.
How many Me 262s have been built?
1,430 built.
What do crews call the Me 262?
The Schwalbe.
How rare is a Me 262 in Bogey?
LEGENDARY. The top tier. Spotters plan trips around a catch like this. Your first Me 262 catch is worth 1,000 points.
