NEW DELHI- A British Royal Navy F-35 Lightning II fighter jet conducted an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV) on Saturday evening, marking a significant aviation incident in Kerala’s capital city.
The advanced stealth aircraft touched down safely at approximately 9:30 PM after the pilot reported critically low fuel levels during flight operations. Airport sources confirmed the aircraft had departed from a British aircraft carrier operating in regional waters.
British F-35 Emergency Landing
Airport officials immediately declared an emergency status upon receiving the distress call from the F-35 pilot.
The emergency protocols enabled rapid coordination between air traffic control and ground support teams to ensure the aircraft’s safe arrival.
“The pilot reported low fuel and asked for permission to land. Everything was handled quickly and professionally.”
An airport source told PTI news agency
The emergency response demonstrated the airport’s capability to handle complex military aircraft diversions.
Security Measures
The F-35 currently remains stationed at the airport under enhanced security arrangements. Refuelling operations await approval from Central government authorities, following standard protocols for foreign military aircraft operating within Indian airspace.
These procedures reflect India’s strict regulatory framework governing international military aviation activities on domestic soil.
The Indian Air Force released an official statement describing the emergency landing as a standard operational diversion. IAF officials emphasised their complete awareness of the situation and confirmed they provided comprehensive assistance throughout the incident.
“This is a normal occurrence of diversion by an F-35. The IAF was fully aware and facilitated the aircraft for flight safety reasons. All assistance is being provided, and the IAF is coordinating with all relevant agencies,” the statement read.
The F-35 Lightning II, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, serves as one of the world’s most sophisticated fifth-generation combat aircraft. NATO allies, including the United Kingdom, operate these stealth fighters as cornerstone elements of their modern air force capabilities.
India-UK Defence Relations
The emergency landing occurred following enhanced bilateral defence cooperation between India and the United Kingdom. Earlier this week, the Indian Navy conducted joint exercises with the UK Carrier Strike Group in the western Arabian Sea.
The 2-day Passage Exercise included coordinated anti-submarine operations, tactical manoeuvres, helicopter control activities, and professional exchanges between naval officers. These collaborative efforts demonstrate the growing strategic partnership between both nations’ maritime forces.
The UK CSG25’s participation in regional exercises reflects Britain’s continued commitment to Indo-Pacific security cooperation and defence diplomacy initiatives.
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