First RAAF pilots qualifies on F-35

Australia's first fully qualified F-35 Lightning pilot admits this controversial new aircraft takes his breath away.

Squadron Leader Andrew Jackson, 37, started out flying elderly Macchi jet trainers, then graduated to the RAAF's classic Hornets and Super Hornets.

Since January, he's been learning to fly the advanced new F-35, making his first flight in January and now qualifying to fly F-35s and also to instruct new RAAF F-35 pilots.

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