British F-35B Fighter Jet Stranded in Kerala Set to Fly Back Next Week After Repairs

A British Royal Navy F-35B fighter jet, which made an emergency landing at Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram International Airport on June 14 due to a technical fault, is now expected to return to the United Kingdom as early as next week. The aircraft had been on a routine operational sortie over the Arabian Sea when it encountered inclement weather, making it impossible to return to its home base — the Royal Navy’s flagship aircraft carrier, HMS Prince of Wales.

Diverted to Thiruvananthapuram as a precaution, the stealth fighter landed safely but remained grounded for weeks due to unresolved technical issues. The F-35B, known for its short takeoff and vertical landing capabilities, is one of the most advanced and expensive fighter jets in the world, valued at approximately $115 million.

According to Indian officials cited by the Associated Press, the aircraft has now been moved to a designated hangar within the airport for further assessment and repairs. A specialized team of UK engineers has been deployed to inspect and restore the jet’s operational capabilities. The British High Commission in India confirmed the team’s presence and their ongoing work to ensure the aircraft’s return to the UK.

While repairs are reportedly in the final stages, Indian authorities say the fighter jet could be airborne and headed back to the UK within the coming week — putting an end to what has become an unusual diplomatic and viral social media episode.

Over the past month, the jet’s extended stay in Kerala unexpectedly transformed it into an internet sensation. Social media users shared memes and jokes, with Kerala’s tourism department even joining the trend. One widely shared post showed the jet parked on the tarmac under coconut palms, accompanied by a humorous fake review: “Kerala is such an amazing place, I don’t want to leave. Definitely recommend.”

Kerala tourism director K Biju said the viral meme was shared “in good humor” and aimed at expressing gratitude towards British tourists — who constitute the largest group of foreign visitors to the state. “It was our way to appreciate and thank the Brits,” he said.

Another viral cartoon depicted the fighter jet surrounded by local people, enjoying snacks and scenic views — further fueling the light-hearted mood around the situation.

Meanwhile, there was some speculation that the aircraft might need to be partially dismantled and flown out aboard a cargo plane if repairs failed. However, the UK Ministry of Defence has dismissed such speculation, confirming that the fighter will be repaired and flown back under its own power.