UK Navy F-35 Fighter Jet Makes Emergency Landing in Kerala
Emergency Landing at Thiruvananthapuram Airport
On Saturday night, a UK Navy F-35 fighter jet was forced to make an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in Kerala. The stealth aircraft, which was scheduled to take off from a British aircraft carrier in the vicinity, landed safely around 9:30 PM.
#WATCH | Kerala: An F-35 fighter jet of the UK Navy made an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport due to low fuel. The aircraft is still there.
— Media Channel (@MediaChannel) June 15, 2025
(Visuals from Thiruvananthapuram Airport) pic.twitter.com/2M0EsBJcOX
According to sources at the airport, the aircraft made the emergency landing after reporting low fuel levels during its flight. "The pilot communicated the low fuel situation and requested landing permission. The situation was managed swiftly and professionally," the source noted.
Response from Airport Authorities
In response to the situation, airport officials promptly declared an emergency to facilitate the safe landing of the advanced fifth-generation fighter jet. Refueling will be permitted once the necessary approvals are obtained from the relevant authorities in the central government, as is standard protocol for foreign military aircraft operating in Indian airspace.
IAF's Statement on the Incident
Meanwhile, officials from the Indian Air Force (IAF) stated that the emergency landing was a routine diversion and that they were fully informed of the situation. They provided all necessary support and are collaborating with the appropriate agencies.
"This type of diversion by an F-35 is a common occurrence. The IAF was aware and ensured the aircraft's safety. We are providing all necessary assistance and coordinating with relevant agencies," the IAF confirmed in their statement.
About the F-35 Lightning II
The F-35 Lightning II, developed by Lockheed Martin in the United States, is one of the most advanced fighter jets in operation globally and is utilized by several NATO allies, including the UK.
Strengthening India-UK Defence Ties
Earlier this week, the Indian Navy and the UK's Carrier Strike Group (UK CSG25) engaged in a joint naval exercise in the western Arabian Sea, known as a Passage Exercise (PASSEX).
"UK CSG25 participated in a joint exercise with the Indian Navy in the western Arabian Sea," a statement from the UK Carrier Strike Group indicated.
The two-day naval drill included various activities such as coordinated anti-submarine operations, tactical maneuvers, and communication exercises between naval aviators and flight deck officers.