British F‑35B Fighter Jet Still Grounded in Kerala After Emergency Landing
Thiruvananthapuram, June 18 — A British Royal Navy F‑35B fighter jet, known as one of the world’s most advanced and expensive warplanes, remains grounded at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport after making an emergency landing last Friday night due to a technical snag.
The aircraft, which was flying from the Royal Navy’s aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales, was diverted to the Kerala airport after multiple failed landing attempts on the ship due to rough sea conditions. Running critically low on fuel, the pilot issued a distress call and received clearance to land at the civilian airport around 9:30 PM on June 14.
Sources at the airport confirmed that the fighter jet, which uses short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) technology, landed safely at Bay 4 with the support of Indian air traffic controllers. A team of technicians was airlifted from the carrier shortly afterward via a military helicopter to assist in repairs.
Initial inspections indicated a hydraulic fault, and although an early departure was scheduled for Tuesday, the issue persisted. The aircraft continues to remain grounded as of Wednesday, pending further technical checks.
Security has been tightened around the aircraft. A detachment from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has been deployed to guard the jet around the clock, considering its strategic importance and sophisticated onboard systems. Three Royal Navy personnel — including the pilot — are currently stationed in Kerala to oversee the jet’s maintenance and coordination with local authorities.
The incident marks the first emergency landing of a British F‑35 in Indian airspace, highlighting the cooperation between Indian defense agencies and their international counterparts. Thiruvananthapuram airport is listed as a designated emergency diversion airfield for naval aviation in the region.
Airport officials have extended full hospitality to the British crew, including providing western-style meals and accommodation during their unplanned stay.
The F‑35B Lightning II is a fifth-generation stealth fighter valued at over $100 million per unit. Known for its advanced sensors, radar-evading design, and vertical landing ability, the jet is a cornerstone of modern naval aviation for the UK and its allies. However, the fleet has occasionally faced technical issues, with hydraulic and engine systems being areas of concern globally.
Officials from both the Royal Navy and the Indian Air Force have stated that the jet will depart only once it is declared fully airworthy. Until then, it will remain parked in Kerala — an unexpected but secure stop for one of the world’s most advanced warplanes.
