British F-35B Fighter Jet Makes Emergency Landing in Thiruvananthapuram

Update: 2025-06-16 07:16 GMT

Thiruvananthapuram: A British F-35B Lightning II fighter jet made an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport on Saturday night after reportedly running low on fuel, officials confirmed on Sunday.


According to airport sources, the fifth-generation stealth fighter, operating from the UK Royal Navy’s aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales, landed safely around 9:30 PM after seeking permission from air traffic control. “The jet is currently parked at the airport. Refuelling has been completed and it will depart once necessary clearances are received from the relevant authorities,” said an airport official who declined to be named.


The Indian Air Force (IAF) acknowledged the incident in an official statement, calling it a “normal occurrence of diversion” and affirming its support for the aircraft's safety. “IAF is fully aware and facilitated the aircraft for flight safety reasons. All assistance is being given, and coordination is ongoing with all relevant agencies,” the statement said.


The F-35B is understood to have taken off from the HMS Prince of Wales, part of the UK’s Carrier Strike Group currently deployed in the Indo-Pacific region. The aircraft carrier, along with HMS Richmond, recently participated in a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with the Indian Navy’s submarine and P-8I maritime patrol aircraft in the North Arabian Sea on June 9 and 10.


The safe landing and swift coordination reflect strong India-UK military cooperation and robust air safety protocols in the region.


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