Dubai, UAE – November 21, 2025 – An Indian Air Force (IAF) HAL Tejas fighter jet crashed during a demonstration flight at the Dubai Air Show on Friday, leading to the tragic loss of the pilot’s life. The incident occurred around 2:10 p.m. local time (10:10 GMT) as the aircraft was performing an aerial display, including a low roll and negative G maneuver, before descending sharply and impacting the ground approximately one mile from the runway.
Eyewitness accounts and video footage indicate that the jet lost control shortly after executing the maneuver, erupting in flames upon crash. No ejection was observed, and the pilot was confirmed deceased at the scene. The IAF has initiated a Court of Inquiry to investigate the cause, with preliminary assessments focusing on potential technical failure or pilot error during the high-risk display.
The Dubai Air Show, a premier international aviation event showcasing advanced military and civilian aircraft, was attended by global industry leaders, dignitaries, and aviation enthusiasts. The crash disrupted the afternoon demonstrations, prompting immediate response from emergency services to secure the site and manage the plume of black smoke visible from afar.
This marks only the second crash involving the Tejas since its induction into the IAF in 2016. The previous incident occurred on March 12, 2024, near Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, during a tri-services exercise, where the pilot ejected safely. Developed indigenously by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the Tejas is a single-engine, multirole light combat aircraft designed to enhance India’s aerial capabilities and promote defense exports.
In a statement posted on social media, the IAF expressed condolences to the pilot’s family and emphasized the commitment to a thorough investigation. The event has raised questions about the aircraft’s reliability, particularly following recent debunked claims of an oil leak during pre-show preparations, which Indian officials dismissed as misinformation.
The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and event organizers have assured that safety protocols were in place and that the incident will not affect the show’s continuation. Further updates are expected as the inquiry progresses.
