🇬🇧 British F‑35B Fighter Jet Takes Off from Kerala After 39-Day Emergency Stay
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala – July 22, 2025 – In a rare aviation event that captured global attention, a British Royal Navy F‑35B stealth fighter jet, deployed aboard the HMS Prince of Wales, finally took off from Kerala after being stranded at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport for over a month. The emergency landing and subsequent extended stay drew attention not only for its strategic complexity but also for its diplomatic and public impact.
✈️ The Emergency Landing That Made Headlines
On June 14, 2025, the F‑35B Lightning II, considered one of the world’s most advanced fighter jets, declared a Squawk 7700 distress signal due to hydraulic failure, auxiliary power system issues, low fuel, and severe monsoon weather while flying over the Arabian Sea. The pilot skillfully diverted the aircraft and landed it safely at Kerala’s designated emergency airstrip, located at Bay 4 of the international airport.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) promptly provided refueling support, and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) secured the jet under tight surveillance, in line with standard international military emergency protocols.
🛠️ Repairs, Reinforcements & Royal Engineers
Following initial inspections by the Royal Navy engineers, it was evident that the fighter jet couldn’t be repaired with onboard resources. This led to the deployment of a 24-member Royal Air Force (RAF) engineering team, flown in on July 6 aboard an Airbus A400M Atlas military transporter, along with critical equipment and diagnostic tools.
The aircraft was later shifted to the Air India Engineering Services Ltd. (AIESL) MRO hangar, where it underwent full system diagnostics and repair, focusing on hydraulics, auxiliary power units, control surfaces, brakes, and landing gear mechanisms. After rigorous checks and system resets, the jet was deemed airworthy by July 21.
💰 Prolonged Stay & Cost Implications
Grounded for nearly 39 days, the aircraft’s unplanned stay in India came with significant logistical and financial implications. The airport levied a parking fee of ₹26,261 per day, which added up to ₹9.19 lakh (approx. USD $11,100). Additional costs for using the MRO hangar are expected to be billed separately by Air India based on standard aerospace maintenance tariffs.
The UK Government has agreed to cover all costs through defense liaison teams and partners such as the Bird Group, who helped facilitate the local coordination.
🛫 Final Takeoff & Flight Path
On the morning of July 22 at around 10:50 AM IST, the repaired F‑35B stealth jet took off from Thiruvananthapuram, headed for Darwin, Northern Australia, to rejoin the HMS Prince of Wales, which is part of Carrier Strike Group 25 operating in the Indo-Pacific in coordination with the U.S. Navy and Royal Australian Navy as part of the Talisman Sabre 2025 exercises.
A spokesperson from the British High Commission in India and UK Defence Liaison Office thanked Indian authorities for their support, professionalism, and cooperation throughout the ordeal.
📱 From Diplomatic Situation to Internet Sensation
While the emergency stay was serious, it didn’t escape the attention of the internet. The incident gave rise to viral memes and social media posts, especially after Kerala Tourism shared a humorous AI-generated image of the fighter jet with the caption:
“Kerala is such an amazing place, I don’t want to leave. Definitely recommend.”
This light-hearted approach helped turn a stressful military episode into a viral tourism moment and showcased India’s soft power in digital diplomacy.
🔐 Security Assurances & Strategic Confidence
Given the classified technology on board the F‑35B, including stealth capabilities, advanced avionics, and radar systems, there were global concerns regarding data breaches or unauthorized access. Indian authorities confirmed that the aircraft was under UK-led supervision at all times, and no Indian personnel had unsupervised access to the jet or its sensitive systems.
Despite India not being a participant in the F‑35 program, all security protocols were strictly followed, reinforcing mutual trust and transparency between the UK and India.
🧭 Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Emergency Landing | June 14 – Due to hydraulic & power failure |
| Repair Duration | 39 days (June 14 – July 22) |
| Parking Charges | ₹26,261/day → ₹9.19 lakh total |
| Technical Repairs | RAF engineers + Air India MRO |
| Departure | July 22 at 10:50 AM IST to Darwin, Australia |
| Security | Strict UK supervision; no tech compromise |
🌍 Why This Matters on the Global Stage
- India-UK Defence Cooperation: This incident highlighted India’s strategic capabilities to act as a secure landing and repair base for international military allies.
- Operational Diplomacy: UK’s public approach and timely reimbursement showcased responsible defense engagement.
- Soft Power Win: Kerala’s digital wit helped convert a logistical challenge into a social media opportunity.
🚀 What Lies Ahead?
The F‑35B will resume its operational duties with the HMS Prince of Wales in the Indo-Pacific, while Air India MRO is expected to finalize its invoice for additional maintenance services. Experts suggest this event could act as a case study for enhanced military aviation agreements, especially in the context of AUKUS-aligned Indo-Pacific strategies.