British fighter jet F-35B for sale on OLX? Here’s the truth about aircraft grounded at Thiruvananthapuram airport

According to the details, the British F-35B Lightning II jet landed in Thiruvananthapuram International Airport due to a suspected hydraulic issue.

The British jet was on routine flight outside Indian airspace when it developed a technical fault and diverted to the southern Indian airport.

Meanwhile, screenshots from the OLX were posted on social media by users, claiming the aircraft was up for sale for $4 million. The viral post, however, is fake.

But, no such post was found on OLX’s official website. Looking into the details, the items for sale for the F-35 fighter jet were priced in US dollars, suggesting the post was fabricated.

However, social media users took a swipe and commented on the incident.

Here are a few comments:

One wrote, “Someone put a UK F-35B fighter jet up for sale on OLX🤣 kaise kaise log rehte hai yahan..”

Another wrote, “British F-35B Fighter Jet is on sale for only $4 million in Kerala, India. The description is wild….”

A third wrote, “Someone put a selling ads of America billion dollars fighter jet F-35B for sale. This fighter jet is in India for 6 days long due to technical issues. India is not for beginners 🤣🤣 Kya log hain vaiii.”

“Someone have put that stranded UK F-35B Fighter Jet on OLX,” wrote the fourth user.

Root issue:

Though the root cause of the emergency landing of the British jet is said to be a technical fault, the fifth-generation combat jet is still stationed at the airport for a third day.

Shortly after the incident, technicians from the carrier arrived to begin inspection and repairs. Six of them returned to the ship on Tuesday afternoon, while three personnel – including the pilot – remain at Thiruvananthapuram to oversee the rectification efforts.

The pilot has been resting in the airport’s apron office area and the aircrew were moved to the Emergency Medical Centre after the incident, as per the precautionary protocol.

Thiruvananthapuram International Airport Ltd (TIAL) has been facilitating their stay, providing accommodation and meals.

At the Royal Navy’s request, a local ground handling agency was also arranged. Also, the Indian Air Force supports the UK team in returning the aircraft to full service.