A Dream from Anime Takes Off: Kazuhiko Hachiya’s Daring M-02J Test Flight
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On November 8th, 2025, at the Sekiyado Gliding Field, spectators witnessed something extraordinary: the second test flight of the M-02J—an aircraft directly inspired by the iconic Mehve glider from Hayao Miyazaki’s beloved classic, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind. This experiment, led by artist, engineer, and pilot Kazuhiko Hachiya, blends imagination, aeronautical innovation, and a deep love for storytelling into one breathtaking moment of flight.
The video, uploaded the following day, quickly gained momentum online, soaring to over 2.4 million views. Viewers worldwide were captivated not just by the jet-powered craft itself, but by the surprisingly relaxed pilot attire—most famously, the now-legendary bicycle helmet and jean jacket combination. Between the humor, awe, and nostalgia shared in the comments, one thing is clear: this flight resonated with millions.
The M-02J is no ordinary aircraft. With its smooth white silhouette, streamlined wings, and rear-mounted micro-jet engine, it looks like it flew straight out of an animated world. But this test flight wasn’t just about style—it showcased real technological accomplishment. From the engine start-up to the climb-out, turns, and landing, the aircraft demonstrated remarkable stability and lift.
Many viewers noted how effortlessly the glider seemed to rise once the jet engaged, offering a surprisingly smooth takeoff. The onboard camera captured the entire sequence without cuts, allowing audiences to follow everything—the subtle body shifts of the pilot, the horizon tilt in turns, and even the surreal shadow gliding over the runway below. That shadow in particular struck a chord with long-time fans of Nausicaä, who instantly recognized the resemblance to the original animated Mehve.
While the engineering behind the M-02J is impressive on its own, the pilot adds a whole other layer to the story. Kazuhiko Hachiya is not just a creator—he’s willing to strap himself directly onto his flying invention, earning comparisons to adventurous inventors like the Wright Brothers and to daredevils like Evel Knievel.
In fact, commenters couldn’t resist highlighting his unconventional choice of safety equipment. The most-liked remark humorously reads: “I was worried at first, but then I saw he was wearing a bicycle helmet.” Others chimed in about the missing parachute, the 80s-style jean jacket, the lack of safety sandals, and the overall “mad inventor” aesthetic. These lighthearted reactions helped elevate the video into a feel-good experience for millions.
Yet beneath the jokes lies genuine admiration. Many commenters express deep respect for Hachiya’s decades-long dedication—some noting that this project began nearly twenty years ago. Others share how the video revived childhood fantasies of flying like Nausicaä, or how it inspired them to pursue their own aviation dreams.
This test flight stands as a testament to the power of imagination and perseverance. The M-02J symbolizes what can happen when someone not only dreams, but continues refining, testing, and risking in order to bring that dream into reality. Its success marks a milestone not only for the creator and his team, but for fans of design, engineering, and animation worldwide.
Moreover, the flight demonstrates how fiction can inspire real-world innovation. The line between imaginative artwork and functional aeronautical engineering blurs in the most exciting way. Seeing the Mehve’s real shadow skim across the earth—long after many assumed the project was over—was a moment that moved countless viewers.
Part engineering showcase, part nostalgia trip, part human adventure—the Sekiyado test flight video is the rare kind of content that speaks across generations and cultures. It appeals to aviation enthusiasts, anime fans, inventors, and everyday viewers who simply appreciate the beauty of possibility.
Whether you're drawn in by the serene flight path, the clever mechanical design, the humor in the comments, or the emotional connection to Miyazaki’s storytelling, this video delivers something memorable. It’s a reminder that dreams are not limited to the screen—and sometimes, with enough passion and courage, they can take flight in the real world.
