Thiruvananthapuram airport hits the jackpot: F-35 fighter jet to bring in lakhs in parking fees

Thiruvananthapuram: The British fighter jet F-35, which made an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport due to a fuel shortage, has remained grounded here for over a month. The aircraft, part of HMS Prince of Wales—a British Royal Navy warship participating in joint military exercises with the Indian Navy in the Arabian Sea—landed on June 14.

Since then, the state-of-the-art jet has been parked at the airport, initially under tight CISF security in Bay No. 4, and later moved to Air India’s maintenance hangar. The technical fault that stranded the aircraft also triggered a high-security and high-cost parking scenario for the airport.

How much will UK authorities pay for F-35 parking?

According to the Indian Defence Research Wing (IDRW), the fighter jet has incurred daily parking charges of ₹26,261, which, over 35 days, adds up to approximately ₹9.19 lakh. The cost is expected to be borne by the UK authorities, reported CNBC-TV18.

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Is the F-35 repaired?

A 24-member British Royal Air Force technical team arrived in Thiruvananthapuram on July 6 to inspect and repair the aircraft. Working under tight security and secrecy, the team has been operating in a restricted zone within Air India’s second hangar, with even regular security personnel restricted from access.

The repair operations have been carried out under high confidentiality, with special arrangements and heavy guard protection by British military officials.

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Authorities confirmed recently that the technical issues have been resolved, and the aircraft is now expected to depart on July 22, likely via the Middle East route back to the United Kingdom.

How much is the F-35 worth?

The F-35, worth over $110 million, is one of the most advanced stealth fighter jets in the world and a symbol of modern aerial warfare technology. Its unexpected stay in Kerala’s capital city has drawn attention both for its rarity and the logistical complexity involved.

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