An Indian Air Force HAL Tejas light combat aircraft crashed on Wednesday afternoon during an aerobatic display at the Dubai Air Show 2025, resulting in the tragic death of the pilot.
The crash occurred at around 2:10 PM local time when the aircraft lost control while performing a high-speed maneuver. Eyewitnesses reported that the jet dipped abruptly, spiraled downward and slammed into the ground, erupting into a ball of flames. Thick black smoke was seen rising from the crash site as emergency teams rushed to the area within minutes.
The Indian Air Force later confirmed that the pilot sustained fatal injuries, expressing deep regret over the loss. The identity of the pilot has not yet been officially released.
The airshow temporarily suspended flying displays following the incident.
The crash comes shortly after social-media footage circulated showing what appeared to be an “oil leak” from the Tejas during an earlier sortie. Indian officials had dismissed the claims, clarifying that the fluid seen was condensed water draining from the aircraft in humid conditions — not engine oil.
The Tejas, India’s indigenous light combat aircraft designed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), was participating in the Dubai event as part of New Delhi’s efforts to showcase its capabilities to potential international buyers. Aviation experts note that this marks the second major crash involving a Tejas platform.
A court of inquiry has been ordered to determine the exact cause of the accident.
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