When American Pilots First Saw German Jets

This Must Have Been Pretty Scary!

This footage captures the terrifying moment American pilots saw the German Messerschmitt Me 262 for the first time in 1944. The Me 262 was the world’s first operational jet fighter, and it was a game-changer. Flying at speeds 150 mph faster than the fastest Allied fighters, it left its enemies in the dust.

One American pilot even remarked, “It went by like we were standing still.” That’s a chilling statement when you think about it—imagine the fear these pilots must have felt as they watched a German jet roar past them, knowing their own planes couldn’t keep up.

Another comment, “Get off the air,” perfectly reflects the panic and disbelief that must have gripped these men. Seeing a jet in action for the first time was a terrifying experience. The German planes, especially the Me 262, were far ahead of their time and likely left the Allies feeling both awestruck and intimidated.