After being stranded for over three weeks, the British Royal Navy’s F-35B fighter jet was finally moved from Thiruvananthapuram International Airport to a nearby MRO (Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul) facility on July 6. The aircraft had made an emergency landing at the airport on June 14 due to technical issues.
The jet, a part of the UK’s Carrier Strike Group, was en route from the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales when it faced hydraulic failure and low fuel issues. With bad weather over its planned landing zone, the pilot safely diverted to Thiruvananthapuram airport around 9:28 PM IST.
Since its emergency landing, the stealth fighter remained parked under tight security, guarded by CISF personnel and Royal Navy members. Due to its complex nature and monsoon conditions, initial repair efforts failed. As a result, the UK sent a team of nearly 40 engineers and technical experts to India with specialized towing equipment.
On July 6, the team successfully moved the aircraft to the MRO hangar for a detailed inspection and repair. Officials say if the jet cannot be fixed on-site, it may be partially dismantled and flown back to the UK in a military cargo aircraft.
Interestingly, the F-35’s unexpected presence turned into a local talking point. Kerala Tourism even playfully referenced the fighter jet in social media campaigns, using the situation to highlight the state’s appeal.
This rare incident marks one of the longest stays by a stealth aircraft on Indian soil, drawing international attention and logistical coordination between the Indian and British authorities.
