The British F-35B Lightning II stealth fighter jet, which made an unplanned emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport on Saturday night due to low fuel, continues to remain grounded for the fourth consecutive day on Wednesday.
One of the most advanced aircraft of its kind globally, the jet has attracted significant attention from aviation enthusiasts and onlookers at the airport. It is part of the UK’s HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group, which is currently deployed in the Indo-Pacific and recently conducted joint maritime exercises with the Indian Navy.
The F-35B was returning to its carrier when it experienced fuel shortages, necessitating an emergency landing. Since its arrival, British aviation engineers have been working tirelessly to resolve a technical issue related to the aircraft’s hydraulic systems. Despite their efforts, the problem persists, preventing the jet’s departure back to the carrier. The aircraft is parked at Bay 4 of the airport under strict security protocols.
A Royal Navy helicopter arrived shortly after the landing, bringing a team of nine British aviation experts, including a replacement pilot. The original pilot, who safely executed the landing, has since returned to the carrier aboard the helicopter.
The Indian Air Force, Airports Authority of India, and Kerala Police have provided full support and assistance to the British team to facilitate repairs and maintain security around the aircraft.
The F-35B is a fifth-generation multirole stealth fighter, renowned for its short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) capabilities. This allows it to operate from smaller runways and aircraft carriers without the need for catapult launch systems.
Its temporary presence in India is particularly significant, coming just days after the Indian government approved the development of a prototype for the country’s own fifth-generation fighter aircraft—a major milestone in India’s defense and aerospace ambitions.