ISLAMABD: An Indian Air Force (IAF) Tejas fighter jet crashed during an aerial display at the Dubai Airshow 2025 on Friday, killing the pilot and halting flying activities at the event.
The aircraft went down at around 2:10 p.m. local time at Al Maktoum International Airport, according to officials. Footage from the scene showed the single-engine light combat aircraft entering a steep dive before crashing on the far side of the airfield, sending up thick plumes of black smoke.
Rescue and fire crews immediately responded, and emergency sirens were heard across the airshow grounds. The pilot did not survive, the IAF confirmed in a statement posted on X.
An IAF Tejas aircraft met with an accident during an aerial display at Dubai Air Show, today. The pilot sustained fatal injuries in the accident.
IAF deeply regrets the loss of life and stands firmly with the bereaved family in this time of grief.
A court of inquiry is being…
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) November 21, 2025
The Tejas was taking part in an approved aerobatic routine when it suddenly lost altitude. Eyewitnesses reported that the aircraft appeared to “drop abruptly” during the manoeuvre. It remains unclear whether the pilot attempted to eject.
Turkish defence outlet SavunmaSanayiST reported that the same aircraft had been observed with a fuel leak during an earlier display. Indian officials have not commented on the report, and no link has been established between the alleged issue and Friday’s crash.
The IAF said a court of inquiry has been ordered to determine the cause of the accident. Investigators are expected to review flight data, maintenance records, and reports from earlier practice sessions.
Aviation safety specialists say the incident raises questions about the aircraft’s performance and the IAF’s pre-flight and safety procedures, particularly at a major international airshow attended by global air forces and defence manufacturers.
The HAL Tejas is India’s indigenously developed, single-engine light combat aircraft designed by HAL and DRDO. It serves as a multirole fighter for air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.
The Dubai Airshow, one of the world’s largest aviation events, continued with static exhibitions after the crash. Organisers said flying demonstrations would resume under strengthened safety protocols.
The biennial Dubai Air Show, held at the city-state’s second airport, brings together more than 200 aircraft, including private jets, commercial planes, and military aircraft. The event highlights new aircraft designs and advances toward sustainable aviation.
Despite the crash, the airshow would continue, with major aircraft orders reported by Emirates and its low-cost sister airline, FlyDubai. Organisers are maintaining safety protocols and ensuring the event proceeds with demonstrations and exhibitions.
