F-35B Lightning II, First Flying Visit to RNAS Culdrose

An F-35B Lightning II aircraft, ZM143 from 617 squadron made a debut visit to RNAS Culdrose "The Home of Carrier Aviation"  on the 14/11/2018.  A quick drive from Helston and I managed to get myself in position to record the event in time.  This was the first flight where an  F-35B had graced the skies above RNAS Culdrose and it looked  like many of the base personell took time out to witness the F-35B in circuit around the base. On the first approach the aircraft did an orbit/recce of the airfield then carried out two approaches prior to returning to RAF Marham.  The F-35B Lightning II is currently embarked for trials on HMS Queen Elizabeth the Royal Navy's newest aircraft carrier.

Solway Aviation Musem

I had a brief opportunity to visit Solway Aviation Museum situated at Carlisle airport. I only had about an hour which wasn't really long enough. Although not huge there is a small selection of interesting airframes, an indoor exhibit area, shop and cafe. I will hopefully get a longer visit later this year and get some better images. Meanwhile here is a random selection from the day.

Hawker F.51

Canberra Cockpit

English Electric Lightning

Sikorsky S.55 Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm

RAF Phantom FGR2

Meteor

Jet Provest

Sea Prince

RAF Phantom FGR2

Vulcan Bomber

Vulcan Bomber

Vulcan Bomber Cockpit

Vulcan Van