The Gloster Meteor was the first British jet fighter and the Allies' first operational jet. Designed by George Carter, the ‘Meatbox’ first flew in 1943 and the first operational sorties were flown on July 27, 1944 by 616 Sqn at RAF Manston. The jets first combat was against the V-1 flying bombs and the first ‘kills’ were achieved on August 2.

Development of the type was rapid with ever improving versions being produced. The F.4 entered service just too late to see service during the war and was soon superseded by the F.8. By 1949 it became obvious that the handling techniques needed to fly a jet were very different to the skills currently held by RAF fighter pilots so the first of more than 650 dual-control Meteor T.7 was created. The Meteor also went on to prove its worth in the fighter reconnaissance role and proved especially well suited to night fighting.

Almost 4,000 Meteors were built and they served with nations across the globe. Today just a handful remain in airworthy condition. A pair are operated by Martin Baker as ejector seat trials aircraft, the last airworthy Meteor F.8 flies regularly in Australia and Classic Flight looks after a two others. Our NF.11 night fighter was one of the first classic jets to be flown in private hands and our T.7 will be the oldest airworthy jet aircraft when it takes to the skies after restoration.