Rare: HARRIER Jet Pilot Interview. What’s His Favourite Aircraft Feature?

Filmed at Sun’N’Fun Airshow, AV-8B 'Harrier ll Plus' Pilot 'Lucas' talks about how long training takes to fly one of these Harrier jets, his favourite feature of the Aircraft and also what does the AS mean? What does it feel like to slam the throttle forward and take off solo in a Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier II Plus for the very first time? In this interview, Harrier pilot Lucas shares what it is really like to fly, train, and land one of the most unique fighter jets in the world. From vertical landings at sea to the intense training pipeline, this rare behind-the-scenes conversation gives an honest look at life in the cockpit. The AV-8B Harrier II is famous for its vertical landing capability and its role aboard U.S. Marine Corps amphibious ships. With no tail hook and no second seat, the Harrier demands precision, focus, and confidence from the pilot. Lucas explains how long it takes to train, what it feels like to go full power on a first solo, how vertical ship landings work, and what makes the Harrier so different from other military jets. If you are interested in fighter jets, Marine Corps aviation, STOVL aircraft, or pilot training, this interview will take you closer to the experience than ever before.