'Kerala is such an amazing place': UK’s F-35B fighter jet's extended 'vacation' in India features in state tourism ad

Thiruvananthapuram: A F-35B fighter aircraft of the UK that remains grounded at the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport since June 14 owing to technical glitches has become a promotional material for Kerala tourism.

An AI-generated image of the fighter aircraft, surrounded by coconut tress was posted on the official social media page of Kerala Tourism with the caption, "UK F-35B: Kerala is such an amazing place. I don't want to leave. Definitely recommend."

The post went viral with many applauding the brilliant marketing strategy.

Netizens also joined in the fun with a user commenting, "No wonder it refuses to leave now- bro found peace, toddy, and banana chips."

The British High Commission had earlier informed that an engineering team from the UK with specialist equipment is required for the repair.

Sources at the airport said that the aircraft has remained as it is and has not even been shifted to hangar.

The fighter jet, part of HMS Prince of Wales aircraft carrier of the UK Royal Navy was unable to return to the carrier due to adverse weather conditions. Hence it was diverted to the Thiruvananthapuram airport.

Ever since the F-35B fighter, which is considered as the most lethal and survivable fighter aircraft in the world, was grounded in Thiruvananthapuram, it is being widely trolled. Even a fake advertisement that the aircraft is for sale for $4 million had also appeared.