24 UK aviation experts arrive in Kerala to repair grounded F-35B fighter jet

A Royal Air Force Airbus A400M Atlas aircraft landed at Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram International Airport on Sunday, carrying a 24-member team from the United Kingdom to initiate inspection and repair work on a British F-35B Lightning II fighter jet. The aircraft has remained grounded at the airport since June 14, following an emergency landing due to an engineering issue.

The visiting team comprises 14 technical experts from the British Royal Air Force and 10 crew members. The purpose of the visit is to assess the condition of the jet and determine whether repairs can be conducted on-site or if the aircraft must be dismantled and transported back to the UK. The jet, estimated to be worth over $110 million, is part of the HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group.

Following the arrival of the engineering team, the aircraft was shifted from Bay 4 to the airport’s Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility. This relocation was coordinated to minimise disruption to ongoing airport operations. The UK has accepted the Indian offer of space within the MRO facility and is in talks to finalise logistical arrangements with local authorities.

A British High Commission spokesperson stated, “A UK engineering team has deployed to Thiruvananthapuram International Airport to assess and repair the UK F-35B aircraft, which landed following an emergency diversion.” The spokesperson added, “The aircraft will be moved following the arrival of UK engineers, who are carrying specialist equipment necessary for the movement and repair process.”

Airport authorities, local agencies, and the Indian Air Force are extending logistical support to the British team, including accommodation and meals. The fighter jet remains secured under 24x7 guard by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). According to sources, the pilot and technical crew were initially taken to the airport’s Emergency Medical Centre and not stationed near the aircraft.

A preliminary inspection conducted aboard the HMS Prince of Wales had concluded that the required repairs could not be completed on the aircraft carrier and would need specialist support flown in from the UK. The F-35B, a fifth-generation stealth fighter capable of short take-off and vertical landing, is typically deployed from aircraft carriers or forward bases. The aircraft had been participating in joint exercises with the Indian Navy earlier in June.