British F-35B Fighter Jet Set to Return Home After Month-Long Stay in India
NEW DELHI — A British F-35B fighter jet that has been stuck at an Indian airport for nearly a month is expected to fly back to the U.K. soon, officials announced. The jet has become a source of jokes and memes on social media during its unexpected stay.
This advanced stealth fighter, valued at around $115 million, has been at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in Kerala due to a technical issue, according to officials who preferred to remain unnamed. A team of engineers from the U.K. is currently working on repairs.
The aircraft encountered bad weather while on a mission over the Arabian Sea last month and could not return to the Royal Navy’s HMS Prince of Wales aircraft carrier. It was diverted to Thiruvananthapuram, landing there safely on June 14.
Officials are hopeful that the repairs will be completed in the coming days, allowing the jet to fly back home next week.
In addition to its serious purpose, the stranded fighter has sparked a wave of creativity online. The tourism department of Kerala humorously posted a fictional five-star review featuring the aircraft, surrounded by coconut trees. “Kerala is such an amazing place, I don’t want to leave. Definitely recommend,” the post quipped.
K. Biju, a top official in the tourism department, explained that the post was meant to be funny and celebrate the U.K. tourists who frequently visit the state.
Another funny cartoon shared on X showed the jet enjoying snacks with locals against a picturesque backdrop.
The British High Commission confirmed that a team of U.K. engineers is assessing and repairing the aircraft. There had been concerns in India about the possibility of the jet being partially taken apart for transport if repairs couldn’t be made. However, the U.K. Ministry of Defense has dismissed these speculations.
