Aviation enthusiast and YouTube creator cgaviator drew attention from the aviation community with a Microsoft Flight Simulator video that recreates the landing sequence of the fifth-generation F-35B Lightning II on the deck of the British carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth. The report originates from UK Defense Magazine, which highlighted the piece as a rare look at carrier operations from inside the cockpit perspective.
The clip offers viewers an uncommon opportunity to study the F-35B’s deck landing process from a pilot’s seat, adding a new dimension to the discussion around carrier aviation. The video has resonated widely, pulling in more than 300,000 views as of the latest tally, underscoring public interest in modern naval aviation techniques and high-fidelity simulations.
The publication notes that the F-35B commands a steep learning curve for pilots due to its advanced systems, flight modes, and dynamic performance in carrier environments. Even so, the conventional deck landing method remains a cost-effective and safer option in many scenarios compared with the jet’s vertical landing mode, which requires meticulous handling, precise timing, and substantial training to execute reliably.
According to the publication, cgaviator is a legitimate pilot with more than 2.5 hours of flight time across aircraft such as the Hawk and the Tornado GR4. In addition to flying, cgaviator has spent more than seven years working as an aviation instructor, bringing a practical, hands-on understanding of cockpit procedures, crew coordination, and real-world decision making to the content.
Earlier this year, the crew aboard HMS Queen Elizabeth, the flagship of the British fleet, shared a lighthearted moment on social media about an inflatable training target nicknamed Killer Tomato. The post celebrated a successful exercise and praised the teamwork involved in conducting naval training ops, reflecting the broader culture of naval aviation that blends high-stakes operations with occasional humor.
Footage from the carrier’s team demonstrates the inflatable target being placed in the sea, followed by a targeted response from the ship’s Phalanx Close-In Weapon System using a 20mm cannon. The sequence is recorded and shared, illustrating how modern naval units test defensive responses and the precision of onboard tracking and engagement systems. The event serves as a practical example of how training aids and real-time weapon systems integrate into daily operations, reinforcing the value of preparedness and coordinated effort among crew members.