Pilot killed after India's Tejas fighter jet crashes at Dubai Air Show

Dubai (Web Desk/Agencies): An Indian-made Tejas fighter jet crashed while performing a demonstration at the Dubai Airshow, the international media reported on Friday.

The aircraft, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, went down around 2:10 pm local time, leaving spectators stunned.

Videos circulating online showed the jet plummeting at high speed before erupting into a fireball upon impact. Smoke billowed from the site as emergency crews raced to respond.

The crash occurred roughly a mile (1.6 kilometers) from the show venue, which on its final day was packed with hundreds of onlookers watching from grandstands, while the apron was lined with planes, helicopters, and other aircraft on static display.

The Indian Air Force confirmed on X that the pilot was killed in the accident. Footage revealed the fighter performing a low roll just before crashing in flames.

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, meaning “brilliance” in Hindi, is a domestically designed and built fighter jet that joined the Indian Air Force in 2016. The aircraft has faced several design hurdles over the years and was previously deemed too heavy for the Indian Navy.

The Dubai Air Show, held at Al Maktoum International Airport from November 17 to 21, is the largest aerospace exhibition in the Middle East. The event showcased over 1,500 exhibitors, 200 aircraft across flying and static displays, 12 conference tracks, and drew 450 global visionaries.

This crash marks the second known incident involving the Tejas fighter. The first occurred during a training exercise in India in 2024.

Powered by General Electric engines, the rollout of Tejas Mk-1A jets has been slowed due to supply issues, with only four of 99 engines ordered in 2021 delivered so far. GE has attributed the delays to post-Covid-19 supply chain challenges.

The Tejas Mk-1A fleet is a key part of India’s plan to strengthen its air force, replacing aging jets and bolstering capabilities amid China’s growing military influence and support for Pakistan, India’s regional rival.