Enemy Pilots Speak Voices from the other side

The Mitsubishi A6M Rei-sen resulted from a brilliant blend of lightweight structures and efficient aerodynamics, which gave it superb maneuverability and lethality early in WW II. This aircraft is now on static display at the Pacific Aviation Museum in Honolulu, Hawaii.(Photo courtesy of Brian Silcox)

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All too often American students of air warfare forget that enemy aircraft—whether Messerschmitts or MiGs—were flown by human beings with the same motivations and traits as Allied airmen. More often than not, the only difference between friend and foe was the paint on the airplane and where they landed. Therefore, we’ve assembled a variety of accounts from WW II Axis fighter pilots, men who were more than simply targets. Japan’s Master of the Zero In...

PARDON THE INTERRUPTION

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All the stories featured in Flight Journal are as unique and varied as the airplanes and warriors who flew them. From popular warbirds like the P-51 Mustang and Me 109 to the Lockheed SR-71 and futuristic hypersonic fighters, we cover the whole spectrum of aviation. We’ve heard from countless readers over the years about how much they enjoy the compelling stories and beautiful photography.