In a remarkable display of international defence cooperation and aviation logistics, the United Kingdom’s F-35B Lightning II fighter jet, which had made an emergency landing at Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, finally took off after remaining grounded for over five weeks. The aircraft, part of a routine sortie from the Royal Navy’s HMS Prince of Wales, had to land unexpectedly on June 14, 2025, due to low fuel levels and adverse weather conditions.

According to official reports, the emergency landing was successfully facilitated by the Indian Air Force (IAF), which swiftly responded to the call for assistance by coordinating a safe descent and providing refueling and other essential logistic support.

Emergency Landing and Technical Snag

The F-35B, one of the world’s most advanced stealth fighter jets, developed a technical snag shortly after its emergency landing, which prevented its immediate departure. The aircraft was subsequently towed into a secure hangar at the international airport for safety and maintenance assessment.

To undertake repairs, the UK Ministry of Defence deployed a 15-member technical team of British engineers, who arrived in Kerala and worked meticulously to restore the aircraft to flying condition. After several weeks of diagnostics and repair efforts, the aircraft was declared operationally fit.

On July 22, the jet was moved from the hangar to the parking bay, refueled, and prepared for takeoff. Reports confirmed that the fighter jet has now safely departed the airport, marking the end of a rare, prolonged military aircraft stay in Indian civilian airspace.

Support From Indian Authorities

Throughout the entire episode, the Indian Air Force played a key role in ensuring the jet's safe landing and extended support during its grounded phase. This included logistical backing, coordination with airport authorities, and cooperation with the UK engineering team.

Officials from the British Defence Ministry expressed gratitude to Indian authorities for their unwavering support and professional assistance in handling what could have been a far more complicated incident.

Airport Charges and Operational Costs

While the aircraft was grounded, it occupied a designated bay at the international airport, leading to a series of operational and financial implications. According to airport sources, the jet incurred parking charges estimated between ₹15,000 to ₹20,000 per day. Over a span of 38 days, this alone translates to approximately ₹5.7 lakh to ₹7.6 lakh.

In addition to the parking fees, land charges for fighter aircraft and Airbus models, as per the current structure, range between ₹1 lakh to ₹2 lakh, adding to the total. The use of Air India’s Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility also generated extra costs, the rates of which will be finalised soon, an official confirmed.

These charges are expected to be billed to the UK Government or its defence entities as per standard international aviation practices.

A Tourism Takeaway

In a lighter tone, the Kerala Tourism Department capitalised on the international attention the event received by posting a photo of the jet on social media, accompanied by a witty caption that read:

"Kerala, the destination you'll never want to leave."

The humorous take on the prolonged stay of the state’s most high-profile "visitor" captured the internet's imagination and received significant engagement.

Global and Strategic Significance

The F-35B Lightning II is a fifth-generation multirole stealth combat aircraft, equipped with vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capabilities. Developed by Lockheed Martin, it represents one of the most sophisticated aviation assets in modern warfare. It is extensively used by the United States Marine Corps, the UK Royal Navy, and other NATO allies.

That such an aircraft landed and remained grounded on foreign civilian soil is a rare occurrence in international military aviation. It reflects the trust and cooperation between India and the United Kingdom, particularly in strategic and defence contexts.

This incident also underscores the readiness of India’s defence and civil aviation infrastructure to respond effectively to high-profile emergencies involving advanced military technology.

Chronology of Events

• June 14, 2025: The F-35B jet, operating from HMS Prince of Wales, makes an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram due to low fuel and poor weather.

• The IAF facilitates the landing and offers support in coordination with civilian authorities.

• A technical snag is identified, grounding the aircraft.

• A 15-member UK engineer team arrives to conduct repairs.

• The aircraft is towed into a hangar and undergoes extensive diagnostics and maintenance.

• By July 21, the jet is deemed fit for flight, refueled, and moved to the tarmac.

• July 22, 2025: The aircraft successfully takes off, returning to its operational course.

Public Reaction and Media Coverage

The incident attracted considerable public and media attention due to the jet’s highly visible presence at a civilian international airport and its prolonged stay. Aviation enthusiasts and travellers at the airport often spotted the aircraft on the tarmac or being towed to the hangar. Several photos and videos circulated online, drawing both curiosity and national pride.

The repair operation was also closely monitored by Indian aviation authorities, as handling military aircraft belonging to foreign powers is a matter requiring utmost precision, security, and diplomatic protocol.

Conclusion

The successful resolution of this international aviation episode exemplifies India’s growing stature as a capable and cooperative player in global defence logistics. It also reflects the operational strength and readiness of India’s Air Force and civil aviation infrastructure in dealing with critical and rare aviation contingencies.

The departure of the F-35B marks not just the end of a unique chapter at Kerala’s airport but also reinforces India’s growing relevance in strategic military coordination with key global allies like the United Kingdom.

As Kerala Tourism cheekily observed, this F-35B jet might indeed be the most high-tech tourist to have ever overstayed its welcome—or perhaps, truly didn’t want to leave.

The Upcoming IPOs in this week and coming weeks are Sellowrap Industries, Repono, Shanti Gold International, Indiqube Spaces, GNG Electronics, Brigade Hotel Ventures, Patel Chem Specialities, TSC India, NSDL.

The Current active IPO are Monarch Surveyors & Engineering Consultants, Swastika Castal, Savy Infra.

Start your Stock Market Journey and Apply in IPO by Opening Free Demat Account in Choice Broking FinX.

Join our Trading with CA Abhay Telegram Channel for regular Stock Market Trading and Investment Calls by CA Abhay Varn - SEBI Registered Research Analyst.