British Fighter Jet Makes Emergency Landing in Thiruvananthapuram
Airport authorities declared an emergency to ensure a smooth and safe landing
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A British warplane made an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram airport due to low fuel.
The aircraft had taken off for a training mission from the British Royal Navy's aircraft carrier, Prince of Wales, which was anchored 100 nautical miles off the coast.
The F-35B, a fifth-generation fighter jet, was piloted by only one person during the training flight.
The emergency landing took place at 9.30 pm on Saturday; adverse weather conditions prevented the aircraft from returning to the carrier. As fuel levels decreased, the pilot contacted air traffic control at Thiruvananthapuram Airport, prompting the airport authorities to prepare for an emergency landing.
Indian Air Force fighter jets were also deployed to provide a security escort for the British aircraft.
After landing safely at the domestic terminal, the aircraft will be refuelled with the permission of the defence and immigration departments. The F-35B will only depart once security personnel have completed their checks and formalities.
The aircraft, known for its advanced operational capability, is designed to take off and land in any adverse condition.
