A British F-35B Lightning II fighter jet made an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in Kerala on Saturday night, June 14, 2025, due to critically low fuel levels. The advanced stealth fighter, belonging to the UK's HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group, was operating in the Indo-Pacific region and had recently participated in joint maritime exercises with the Indian Navy.
Airport authorities were alerted around 9:30 pm when the pilot requested permission to land. They promptly declared an emergency to ensure the safe arrival of the aircraft. Sources at the airport confirmed that the landing was executed smoothly and professionally. "The pilot reported low fuel and asked for permission to land. Everything was handled quickly and professionally," one source stated.
The F-35B is currently parked at the airport, awaiting refueling. The necessary approvals from the central government are pending before refueling operations can commence. The incident has highlighted the efficient emergency response protocols at the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport and the seamless coordination between the airport authorities and the concerned parties.
The HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group has been actively engaged in exercises and operations in the Indo-Pacific, underscoring the UK's commitment to the region's security and stability. The F-35B, a fifth-generation fighter, is a key component of the carrier strike group, providing advanced airpower capabilities. The aircraft's presence in the region demonstrates the UK's ongoing efforts to strengthen defense cooperation with key partners like India.
This emergency landing underscores the importance of robust logistical support and contingency planning for military operations, especially those conducted far from home bases. Investigations are likely underway to determine the exact reasons for the low fuel situation and to prevent similar incidents in the future. In the meantime, the incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of military operations and the need for constant vigilance and preparedness.
