A British F-35B fighter jet that had taken an unexpected detour in southern India due to mechanical issues has finally returned home after a lengthy stay at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. The aircraft had been grounded since mid-June because of technical difficulties, leaving it unable to return to its aircraft carrier in the Arabian Sea.
Engineers from the UK worked tirelessly for weeks to address the problems, which involved the jet’s hydraulic and auxiliary power systems. The British High Commission in New Delhi confirmed that repairs were successfully completed, enabling the jet to resume its journey to Darwin, Australia. An anonymous airport official disclosed that a crew of 14 had worked on the aircraft, which is valued at over $100 million.
During its extended presence at the airport, the F-35B became somewhat of a local celebrity, amusing citizens and attracting attention from the tourism department. Memes and lighthearted jokes circulated on social media, with locals posting farewell messages such as “Bye, bro,” and even humorous pleas for the jet to remain: “Please don’t go. We loved you standing on the airport. Feelings had developed.”
With tight security measures in place to safeguard the jet's sensitive technology, airport staff were kept at a distance while repairs took place. The Royal Air Force was scheduled to retrieve the engineering crew on Wednesday, marking the final chapter of the fighter jet's unusual Indian journey. As it departs, the F-35B leaves behind a legacy of fondness and creativity among the locals who had taken it to heart.
