Indian Tejas fighter jet crashes during Dubai Air Show; investigation underway

An Indian Air Force Tejas crashed during a demonstration at the Dubai Air Show, prompting an immediate investigation as officials work to confirm the pilot’s status.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates | Nov 21, 2025 – 500 to 600 words, no subheadings):
A demonstration flight at the Dubai Air Show turned tragic when an Indian Air Force Tejas fighter jet crashed during a mid-afternoon manoeuvre at Al Maktoum International Airport. The aircraft went down around 2:10 p.m. local time, sending a plume of dark smoke across the venue and bringing the event to an abrupt halt. Rescue teams rushed to the site within minutes as firefighters worked to control the blaze caused by the impact.

Eyewitnesses said the jet appeared to dip sharply while attempting a turn before striking the ground near a restricted apron area. The condition of the pilot has not been officially confirmed, and authorities are withholding details until a full assessment is complete. Emergency personnel cordoned off the crash zone, and air show activities were paused while the area was secured.

The Tejas was part of India’s display lineup, meant to showcase the country’s progress in developing homegrown defence aviation. The aircraft has been promoted internationally as a capable light combat jet under India’s expanding indigenous manufacturing programme. The crash, however, has raised concerns within defence circles, especially as the Tejas has been featured prominently in recent export discussions.

Officials from the Indian Air Force, the Indian Ministry of Defence and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited are working with UAE authorities to conduct a joint investigation. A specialised team has begun collecting debris from the site and retrieving flight data equipment to understand what may have gone wrong. Investigators will look into factors such as mechanical failure, pilot handling, weather conditions and possible technical anomalies during the manoeuvre.

Spectators at the air show described a chaotic scene, with families and aviation enthusiasts initially unaware of the severity until the smoke intensified. Staff quickly directed crowds away from the section, and announcements advised visitors to remain calm. Air show management also temporarily suspended all flying displays, resuming only after safety checks were completed.

For India, the incident comes at a sensitive time. The Tejas programme has been central to efforts to strengthen self-reliance in defence manufacturing. With the aircraft already inducted into the Air Force and newer variants under development, the crash is likely to prompt detailed internal reviews. Experts say the investigation outcomes will be crucial not only for fleet safety but also for future international demonstrations and ongoing negotiations with countries evaluating the jet.

Defence analysts note that demonstration flights carry inherent risks, as pilots often perform sharp manoeuvres to highlight agility and performance. Such displays push aircraft close to operational thresholds, and any minor malfunction can lead to catastrophic outcomes. The Tejas has completed numerous successful appearances in air shows worldwide, making this incident particularly unexpected.

Authorities in both countries are expected to release formal statements once more information is verified. For now, speculation continues as footage captured by spectators circulates online, drawing global attention to the mishap. Aviation experts caution against premature conclusions until the flight recorder data and technical assessments are fully analysed.

The crash has cast a shadow over what was intended to be a celebratory showcase of global aviation. As the investigation continues, concerns remain focused on identifying the cause, assessing the pilot’s situation and ensuring that future demonstrations proceed with reinforced safety protocols.

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