Thiruvananthapuram: An AI-generated image of a stealth aircraft parked on a tropical tarmac lined with coconut trees has taken the internet by storm after it was shared by Kerala’s tourism department as part of its latest promotional campaign.
The viral post humorously portrays the futuristic jet giving Kerala five golden stars and calling it “an amazing place.” The fictional aircraft review adds: “I don’t want to leave. Definitely recommend.”
The image has since captured the imagination of social media users, drawing both amusement and admiration for its creative concept. “This was part of our tourism campaign. It has been one of the most innovative and eye-catching ones… It’s all in good humour and creativity,” said Biju K., Kerala’s Tourism Secretary.
Kerala, the destination you’ll never want to leave.
Thank you, The Fauxy.#F35 #Trivandrum #KeralaTourism pic.twitter.com/3lei66a5T2
— Kerala Tourism (@KeralaTourism) July 2, 2025
The playful post is part of Kerala Tourism’s broader strategy to use creativity and digital storytelling to showcase the state’s appeal. Roy Mathew, Director of Stark Communications, the agency behind Kerala Tourism’s branding, noted that while tourism is a government-led initiative, the promotion has increasingly embraced out-of-the-box ideas.
Kerala, known for its lush greenery, serene backwaters, and rich cultural heritage, remains one of India’s most popular tourist destinations. Branded as ‘God’s Own Country,’ the state attracted 22.2 million visitors last year alone. Its scenic south-western coastline, classical art forms, temple festivals, and diverse cuisine continue to draw travelers from across the globe. The viral AI image coincidentally surfaced just weeks after a real-world aviation incident involving a stealth jet near Kerala’s shores.
Day 17 on ground in Kerala.
The @RoyalNavy F-35 is in India for just 17 days, and Indians have already listed it for sale on OLX! Classic !! #F35 pic.twitter.com/ULkaAdYPXm
— Kanwaljit Arora (@mekarora) June 30, 2025
The Indian Air Force recently confirmed it would assist in the repair and return of a British F-35 stealth fighter that made an emergency landing on June 14 while flying over the Arabian Sea off Kerala’s coast.
A spokesperson for the British High Commission in India stated that the UK government had accepted India’s offer to move the aircraft to a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility at Thiruvananthapuram Airport.
The jet is expected to be shifted to a hangar once specialist engineering teams arrive from the UK with the necessary equipment. UK Minister for the Armed Forces Luke Pollard informed the British Parliament on Monday that a Royal Air Force crew is currently stationed in Thiruvananthapuram, working closely with Indian counterparts to manage the situation.
