A British F-35B fighter jet, worth over $100 million, has found itself stranded at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in Kerala after a flight diversion due to inclement weather over the Arabian Sea. The aircraft, which arrived in mid-June, developed mechanical issues that have delayed its return home. In the meantime, the jet has charmingly captured the hearts of local residents and travelers alike, becoming somewhat of an unexpected mascot for the region.
British F-35B Fighter Jet's Detour Sparks Local Delight in Kerala

British F-35B Fighter Jet's Detour Sparks Local Delight in Kerala
A stranded British fighter jet in India has become a local sensation, drawing attention and humor during its unexpected visit.
The jet attempted to return to its carrier, H.M.S. Prince of Wales, but was diverted to Kerala. Following its landing, issues with its engine prompted specialists from the British military to travel to assess the situation. As efforts to resolve the mechanical challenges continue, humor has flourished online, with the local tourism agency sharing a playful, fictitious five-star review supposedly written by the jet. The jet whimsically stated, “Kerala is such an amazing place, I don’t want to leave. Definitely recommend.”
While the fate of the F-35B remains uncertain, it seems its stay has become a delightful distraction as the community and visitors embrace this unusual twist of aviation fate. The British engineering team is expected to work diligently to return the aircraft to service, but for now, it enjoys its new-found fame under the warm Kerala sun.
With social media buzzing and creativity sparked by its presence, the incident highlights the unexpected joys that can arise from even the most challenging situations, turning a logistical headache into an amusing story for both locals and international observers.
While the fate of the F-35B remains uncertain, it seems its stay has become a delightful distraction as the community and visitors embrace this unusual twist of aviation fate. The British engineering team is expected to work diligently to return the aircraft to service, but for now, it enjoys its new-found fame under the warm Kerala sun.
With social media buzzing and creativity sparked by its presence, the incident highlights the unexpected joys that can arise from even the most challenging situations, turning a logistical headache into an amusing story for both locals and international observers.