A Tejas fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed during an aerial display at the Dubai Airshow on Thursday afternoon, resulting in the death of the pilot. The incident has been confirmed by both the Dubai Media Office and the Indian Air Force.
The crash occurred at approximately 2:10pm (UAE time) during a scheduled flying demonstration at Al Maktoum International Airport. Eyewitness footages show the aircraft performing a manoeuvre before suddenly losing altitude and rapidly descending, then exploding on impact at a distance from the spectator stands. Emergency response teams were deployed instantly to the crash site.
In a statement posted on X, the UAE Ministry of Defence said: “A Tejas fighter aircraft from India participating in today’s flying display at the Dubai Airshow has crashed, resulting in the tragic death of the pilot. Firefighting and emergency teams responded rapidly to the incident and are currently managing the situation on-site.”
The IAF also confirmed the pilot’s death and announced the formation of a court of inquiry to investigate the cause of the crash. “Indian Air Force deeply regrets the loss of life and stands firmly with the bereaved family in this time of grief,” the statement said.
Eyewitness videos
Video recordings of the crash circulated widely online shortly after the incident, showing the jet descending rapidly before the impact and subsequent explosion. Emergency response teams were deployed instantly, but the pilot could not be saved.
Aerial displays temporarily halted
Following the crash, aerial stunt displays were temporarily halted. The outdoor exhibition zone was cordoned off, and visitors were evacuated from the viewing areas as safety protocols were activated.
Eyewitnesses confirmed that aerobatic displays were paused for nearly 90 minutes following the incident. “The aerobatic displays were halted for about an hour and a half and resumed at 3.40pm (UAE time) with the Russian Knights flying Sukhoi jets,” said a visitor attending the event.
About the Tejas aircraft
The Tejas is a single-seat, 4.5-generation Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Designed for air defence and multi-role combat operations, it is regarded as one of the lightest fighter jets in its class. The aircraft is equipped with a Martin-Baker zero-zero ejection seat, designed to enable safe ejection at low altitudes and low speeds.
Dubai Airshow continues
The Dubai Airshow, one of the world’s largest aviation exhibitions, opened on November 17 and ends on November 21. More than 1,500 exhibitors, including 440 first-time participants and 490 military and civil delegations from 115 countries, participated in the event this year.
Source: TOI, GN, KT
