F-35B has first Eglin flight

F-35B takes off at Eglin. Lockheed Martin photo

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- An F-35B made its first flight at Eglin Air Force Base Tuesday, two months after 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing officially introduced the Marine Corps' variant at the 33rd Fighter Wing. The goal for Marines was to start local area operations and conventional flights, beginning the process of gradually expanding the envelope to short takeoffs and vertical landings and more complex aerial training. Maintainers have been preparing for the flight with engine runs and taxi operations for about eight months since F-35 aircraft began arriving at Eglin last summer. (Source: Eglin Public Affairs, 05/22/12)