A British Royal Navy F-35B fighter jet made an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport on the night of June 14, 2025. The aircraft, operating from the UK’s HMS Prince of Wales aircraft carrier, was conducting routine flying operations outside India’s Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ) when it encountered a fuel shortage.
Unable to return to the carrier due to rough sea conditions, the pilot contacted Indian air traffic control and requested an emergency landing. The Indian Air Force (IAF) swiftly coordinated the response, guiding the aircraft to Bay 4 of the airport. Emergency protocols were activated, and firefighting teams were on standby, though no incidents occurred during the landing. This event marks the first time a foreign F-35 has made an unscheduled landing in India. The IAF confirmed that such diversions are routine occurrences managed for flight safety reasons and extended full support to the British aircraft.
The F-35B was refueled on the morning of June 15 and is expected to depart upon receiving necessary clearances. The incident underscores the importance of international cooperation and the role of civilian airports in supporting military operations during emergencies. Thiruvananthapuram International Airport’s readiness to handle such situations highlights the effectiveness of joint civil-military coordination in ensuring aviation safety. While the exact cause of the fuel shortage remains undisclosed, the successful handling of the emergency reflects well on the preparedness of both Indian and British aviation authorities.
The IAF’s prompt response and the safe landing of the F-35B demonstrate the strength of international partnerships in maintaining global aviation safety standards. As investigations continue, the incident serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in military aviation and the critical importance of preparedness and cooperation in managing unforeseen challenges.
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