A tragic incident occurred at the Dubai Air Show on Friday when an India Tejas fighter jet crashed during a flight demonstration, killing the pilot instantly. The aircraft exploded into flames moments after impact, sending thick black smoke over Al Maktoum International Airport. Emergency crews rushed to the scene immediately.
Eyewitness videos showed the HAL-manufactured India Tejas performing an aerial manoeuvre around 2:10 pm local time when it suddenly lost control. The fighter jet crashed and erupted into a massive fireball, shocking spectators, including families with children. Sirens blared across the venue as authorities evacuated nearby areas.
In an official statement, the Indian Air Force confirmed the pilot’s death. “The pilot sustained fatal injuries in the accident. IAF deeply regrets the loss of life and stands firmly with the bereaved family. A court of inquiry is being constituted to ascertain the cause,” the statement read.
This is the second-ever crash involving a Tejas aircraft. The first incident occurred in March 2024 near Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, during a training sortie, where the pilot safely ejected. Investigators are now expected to examine technical and operational factors behind the fatal Dubai crash.
The India Tejas is a single-engine, multi-role light combat aircraft jointly developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) for the Indian Air Force. Named “Radiance” in Sanskrit, the aircraft features a lightweight, indigenous design with advanced aluminium-lithium and titanium alloys, and extensive composite materials.
The latest Mk1A variant includes AESA radar, advanced electronic warfare systems, radar-warning systems, and self-protection jamming. The jet also carries a variety of missiles, including Astra and I-Derby ER, short-range R-73, Python-5, ASRAAM, and an internal 23mm cannon. It has eight hardpoints for fuel and weapon pods, including FLIR, IRST, and laser designators, along with an aerial refuelling probe for extended missions.
In other news read more about Japan’s Largest Fire in 50 Years Destroys 170 Buildings, Kills One
Friday’s crash at an international event has drawn global attention and is likely to spark scrutiny over safety and technical standards. The IAF remains committed to the Tejas program, which is a critical component in addressing declining squadron strength.
