ISLAMABAD: A light combat aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed during a high-speed demonstration at the Dubai Airshow 2025 on Friday, killing the pilot and bringing the flying programme to an abrupt halt as emergency teams rushed to the scene.
The incident has also raised fresh questions about the aircraft’s performance and the Indian Air Force’s safety protocols.
The crash occurred at around 2:10pm local time at Al Maktoum International Airport, where the biennial airshow is being held. The aircraft, identified as HAL Tejas, was performing an aerobatic manoeuvre when it suddenly lost altitude and plunged toward the ground, according to eyewitnesses.
The Tejas is India’s indigenously developed, single-engine light combat aircraft, designed by HAL and DRDO. Classified as an LCA, it serves as a lightweight multirole fighter built for air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.
Thick Smoke Rose Seconds After Impact
Terrible News of India’s Tejas crashing in Dubai Air show. No ejection by pilot spotted. Heartbreaking scene. Via @zone5aviation
— Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) November 21, 2025
Spectators reported seeing the jet enter a steep dive moments before impact, followed by a large fireball and columns of thick black smoke rising from the far side of the airfield. Videos circulating online show the single-engine fighter descending sharply during its routine before crashing beyond the main runway area.
Emergency response teams, including airport fire and rescue units, moved in quickly to secure the crash site and extinguish the flames. Airshow organisers halted all subsequent flying displays.
IAF Confirms Pilot’s Death
In a brief statement, the Indian Air Force confirmed that the aircraft was participating in an approved flying display when it crashed and that the pilot did not survive the accident. His identity has not yet been officially released.
The incident marks a major setback, as Tejas was showcased in Dubai as part of India’s defence outreach and export promotion campaign.
Cause of Crash Under Investigation
The IAF announced that a court of inquiry has been convened to determine what led to the sudden loss of the aircraft. Officials said all aspects — including possible mechanical failure, pilot distress, or external factors — will be examined.
In the hours following the crash, reports resurfaced about alleged technical issues during earlier practice sessions. However, Indian defence officials dismissed these claims, saying there was no evidence of any malfunction before the incident.
Aircraft Was Performing a Display Routine
According to preliminary information, the Tejas was executing a demonstration flight similar to those conducted throughout the airshow. The manoeuvre during which it went down is still under scrutiny. Witnesses said the jet appeared to “lose control abruptly” before hitting the ground.
The crash site was sealed off by authorities while investigators and air crash specialists began their assessment.
Background on the Tejas Programme
The HAL Tejas is India’s home-grown light combat aircraft, designed for air-to-air combat and ground attack roles. The aircraft is equipped with an advanced ejection system and modern avionics. The incident is among the most high-profile accidents involving the LCA during an international demonstration.
Organisers later announced that the Dubai Airshow would resume static exhibitions and limited flying displays under heightened safety protocols as investigations continue.
