The UK Navy F-35 combat aircraft (Great Britain) carried out on Saturday, around 21:30, an emergency landing at the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in Kerala.
The aircraft had to carry out an emergency landing after the declaration of low fuel in the middle of the flight, News Wire PTI reported and quoted resources.
“The pilot reported low fuel and asked for permission to land. Everything was processed quickly and professionally,” the source said.
The aircraft is part of the aircraft carrier British Carrier Strike Group, HMS Prince of Wales, and remains parked at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport.
The F-35 is the same aircraft that US President Donald Trump offered early this year that it includes India among the selected group of nations authorized to buy from the US.
According to a standard protocol for any foreign military aircraft operating in the Indian airspace, refueling of the British Navy F-35 fighter aircraft will only take place after the relevant authorities approve the same in the Central Government, PTI said.
“Standard Due from F-35” says IAF
Indian Air Force (IAF) officials described the emergency landing of the F-35 fighter as a routine departure, confirmed that they were fully informed of the situation and extended all the necessary support.
“This is a normal occurrence of F-35 diversion. IAF was fully aware and facilitated the aircraft for flight safety. All assistance is provided and IAF coordinates with all relevant agencies,” IAF said.
What are the F-35 nozzles?
F-35 Lightning II, developed by Lockheed Martin for the United States and its allies, is one of the most advanced and versatile fighter aircraft in the world.
It is estimated that the total cost of the F-35 fighter program, including its development, production and maintenance, is over $ 1.7 trillion, said Lockheed Martin, CNBC-18 said.
Each jet cost around the following:
- $ 115 million on F-35B (short take-off/vertical landing)
- $ 110 million on F-35C (intended for aircraft carriers)
Operation of the F-35 is also coming at a heavy price, with each flight less than $ 36,000.
(Tagstotranslate) British fighter aircraft emergency landing
