The Joint Strike Fighter project has hit some difficulties recently, especially in relation to the F-35B STOVL version, so it was pleasing for the company to reach a major milestone in the project last Friday, with the first flight of the F-35A, the CTOL version of the new aircraft.
The first flight of aircraft AF-06 (serial 07-0744) took place on Friday afternoon at the company’s Fort Worth facility. Test pilot Bill Gigliotti was at the controls for the flight and reported the aircraft performed very well.
“The aircraft was rock-solid from takeoff to landing, and successfully completed all the tests we put it through during the flight. The Air Force is getting a great jet that represents a huge leap in capability, and we’re looking forward to getting it into the hands of the service pilots in just a few more weeks.”
AF-06 was accompanied by a Lockheed Martin operated F-16 chase plane throughout the mission which consisted of basic manoeuvres and engine trials.
2011-02-26 - Peter Fleetwood
A welcome progress report. I was wondering what differences we shall see on operational aircraft, and how close the STOL version is to making a similar appearance. Thanks, Paul, for another fine article + photographs.
2011-02-26 - Greg Bishop
I'd call this making great use of the day!
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