Tejas Crash at Dubai Airshow Shocks Crowd Pilot Dies During Mid Air Manoeuvre

A Light Combat Aircraft LCA Tejas fighter jet crashed during an aerial manoeuvre at the Dubai Airshow on Friday afternoon leading to the death of the pilot. The aircraft turned into a fireball after hitting the ground while thousands of spectators and defence delegates were watching the live display. The Indian Air Force IAF confirmed the incident and said a Court of Inquiry will be set up to determine the exact cause of the accident.

The crash happened around 2:10 pm local time. The Tejas jet involved in the accident was manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited HAL. Rescue teams reached the spot immediately and emergency operations were launched. Airshow activities were briefly paused following the incident.

Tejas crash at Dubai Airshow Official Response by IAF

The Indian Air Force expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the pilot. In its official statement on X the IAF said that the aircraft met with an accident during an aerial display and the pilot succumbed to fatal injuries. The force also extended condolences to the bereaved family and assured full support during this difficult period.

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

A Court of Inquiry will investigate the technical and operational aspects of the crash to find out whether mechanical failure human error or other factors led to the tragedy.

About the Dubai Airshow and the Incident

The Dubai Airshow is one of the world’s biggest aviation exhibitions and attracts global participation from defence manufacturers and aerospace companies. The event started on November 17 and is scheduled to conclude on November 24.

Over 1,500 exhibitors and delegations from multiple countries are taking part in this year’s airshow. Media reports confirmed that the flying display was halted temporarily after the crash to ensure safety and clear the area for emergency services.

Tejas crash at Dubai Airshow and Aircraft Capabilities

Tejas is India’s indigenously developed single seat light combat aircraft built for multi role operations. It supports offensive air missions and close combat ground operations with high agility and modern avionics.

The aircraft has a maximum take off weight of 13,300 kg and a payload capacity of up to 4,000 kg. Its compact size and extensive composite structure make it one of the lightest fighters in its class. The Indian Air Force inducted Tejas into frontline service in 2016 with No. 45 Squadron known as the Flying Daggers while the Navy also operates its trainer variants.

Tejas Mk1A Upgrades and Oil Leakage Claims

In August the government approved the procurement of 97 Tejas Mk1A fighter jets under the Make in India defence programme. The Mk1A version comes with major upgrades including AESA radar advanced electronic warfare systems radar warning receivers self protection jammers smart multifunction displays and improved communication tools.

Some social media accounts recently claimed that Tejas had an oil leakage issue during the Dubai airshow but the government clarified on November 20 that these claims are false. Officials stated that the video shows routine drainage of condensed water from the Environmental Control System and the On Board Oxygen Generating System which is a normal procedure in humid weather conditions like those in Dubai.

They also confirmed that such misinformation is being spread to damage the reputation of India’s indigenous fighter programme despite its proven operational reliability.

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