With Douglas test pilot Gene May at the controls, the first Douglas D-558-2 Skyrocket performed a media demonstration at Muroc (now Edwards AFB). During May's second of two passes in front of the media, he lit all four cylinders of the rocket engine. It was said that he exceeded the sound barrier, startling the crowd with the noise and acceleration. This was the plane's 69th flight, and after this thrilling demonstration, May retired from test flying.