Tejas Fighter Jet Crashes During Dubai Airshow; Pilot Killed as IAF Orders Inquiry
An Indian Air Force Tejas fighter jet crashed during a Dubai Airshow display, killing the pilot. The IAF has launched a probe to determine the cause of the accident.
A plume of smoke rises after an Indian Air Force Tejas fighter jet crashes during an aerobatic display at the Dubai Airshow 2025.
The Dubai Airshow on Friday was marred by a sad occurrence for the IAF when an Indian Air Force (IAF) Tejas fighter jet crashed during a high-speed aerobatic display, leading to the pilot's death. The mishap took place just after 2:10 PM (local time) when the homegrown Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), executed a steep nose-dive during the manoeuvre and fell to the ground near the runway.
In a few moments after the crash, the venue was filled with thick black smoke which frightened not only the spectators and aviation experts but also the international delegates who were present on the last day of the global airshow at Al Maktoum International Airport.
IAF Confirms Fatal Crash
The Indian Air Force published the official statement expressing its deep sorrow over the death:
"An IAF Tejas aircraft was involved in an accident during an aerial display at Dubai Air Show today. The pilot passed away as a result of the injuries sustained in the accident. IAF deeply regrets the loss of life and supports the bereaved family in their sorrow."
Top Defence Officials React
Gen. Anil Chauhan, the Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces, comforted the family of the deceased pilot by saying that the loss was "very hard to bear" and that it was a huge loss since the pilot had been instrumental in India's aviation efforts.
Probe Ordered
The IAF has established a Court of Inquiry to investigate the cause of the crash. Failure of the technical system, the response time of the pilot, the mechanical stress due to advanced movements, and weather conditions are some of the factors that will be considered.
Eyewitness Accounts
Online videos show the Tejas making an aggressive vertical movement before losing lift and falling rapidly. The emergency response teams got to the scene a few minutes later.
Families, aviation fans, and global defence leaders were all present at the accident scene and many were visibly stunned when the fireball near the demonstration area took place.
About the Event
The Dubai Airshow 2025, which took place from November 17-21, showcased the newest advancements in aviation technology, aerial demonstrations, and defence shows from around the world. Tejas LCA was one of the main exhibits of India aimed at facilitating the country's defence exports.
