F-35A Lightning ll aircraft to conduct single pass along The Strand, Townsville on Friday 16 May 2025

A single 2 Operational Conversion Unit (2OCU) F-35A Lightning II aircraft from RAAF Base Williamtown will conduct a single pass over The Strand on Friday afternoon.

The single F-35A Lightning II aircraft will conduct a low pass travelling from south to north along the Strand before conducting an overwater vertical departure in the vicinity of The Strand Rockpool.

2OCU is deployed to Townsville in support of Exercise Black Dagger – an Army joint terminal attack training exercise conducted out of RAAF Base Townsville and Townsville Field Training Area from 12 to 21 May.

Media Note

Media support in advising the local community of this single flypast for noise mitigation purposes will be appreciated.

Flying is subject to change due to variables such as air traffic control requirements, weather, and other aviation considerations.

Noise reduction and the environment are vital considerations in the planning and conduct of military flying.

Further information about the F-35A Lightning II can be found at 

F-35A Lightning II | Royal Australian Air Force

Imagery of the F-35A Lightning II is available at http://images.defence.gov.au/S20221129

Media Contacts

Defence Media: media@defence.gov.au

For more information, visit the Defence Aircraft Noise website or call 1300 DEFENCE (1300 333 362).