UK’s F-35B Fighter Jet Finally Takes Off from Kerala After 39 Days on Ground

A British F-35B stealth fighter jet, stuck in Kerala for over a month, has finally received clearance to fly. The aircraft had been grounded at Kochi’s INS Garuda airbase since June 12 due to technical and legal hurdles. Its delayed departure raised questions and curiosity across diplomatic, military, and public circles.

The jet’s take-off marks the end of a complex chapter involving India’s aviation protocols and global defence coordination.

How a Cutting-Edge Fighter Ended Up in Kochi

The F-35B, a next-generation fighter used by the UK’s Royal Navy, made an unscheduled landing in Kerala after developing a snag during its voyage from Singapore to the Middle East. It was operating from HMS Prince of Wales, a British aircraft carrier on a deployment mission.

The jet’s emergency landing was approved on humanitarian and safety grounds. However, its departure was delayed by multiple clearances needed under India’s civil aviation and defence protocols.

Why the Delay Took 39 Days

Though the jet landed safely, its departure became tangled in bureaucratic red tape. It required a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation and defence authorities. The F-35B’s highly sensitive technology meant both countries had to tread carefully.

India had to ensure that all security checks were completed. The UK, on the other hand, needed to coordinate with its own agencies to meet the formalities required under Indian laws.

Local Curiosity and Military Diplomacy

In a Tier 2 city like Kochi, where fighter jets are not part of daily life, the sudden appearance of a foreign stealth aircraft created a stir. Locals spotted the jet from a distance and speculated on social media about its purpose and status.

The situation also served as a test of India-UK military cooperation. Both sides handled the matter diplomatically, keeping details limited while ensuring transparency at the operational level.

Departure Cleared, But Not Forgotten

On July 21, after 39 days, the UK’s Royal Navy finally received the all-clear to fly the jet out. It departed with due coordination between Indian defence officials and British personnel stationed at the base.

The jet’s take-off not only ended a lengthy ground stay but also reflected the increasing complexity of international military logistics in a tightly regulated airspace.

Conclusion: A Rare Incident That Sparked Wide Attention

While this event didn’t pose any threat, it highlighted how even advanced military hardware can face unforeseen hurdles far from home. For Tier 2 cities like Kochi, it offered a rare glimpse into global defence operations landing—quite literally—on Indian soil. The F-35B may be gone now, but its 39-day stopover won’t be forgotten anytime soon.