Engine Fire Delays F-35 Transatlantic Flight
The Marine Corps is still planning to deploy the aircraft to the UK.
One of three British F-35Bs at Eglin AFB, where they have been participating in operational test and evaluation of the F-35. One of them is supposed to fly at the RIAT and Farnborough Airshows later this month. (Photo: Lockheed Martin)
One of three British F-35Bs at Eglin AFB, where they have been participating in operational test and evaluation of the F-35. One of them is supposed to fly at the RIAT and Farnborough Airshows later this month. (Photo: Lockheed Martin)

Transatlantic ferry flights of four Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning IIs, due to make their international debut in the UK, were delayed this week by the engine fire that occurred June 23 at Eglin AFB. As a result, tentative plans to fly one or more of them over the naming ceremony for the UK’s new aircraft carrier were cancelled. Britain's Queen Elizabeth will formally christen the big ship named after her, at Rosyth dockyard in Scotland on July 4. It is due to commence sea trials in 2017.


Loading…