By Tajdar H. Zaidi
An Indian Air Force Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas crashed during a high-speed aerial manoeuvre at the Dubai Airshow on Friday afternoon, resulting in the tragic death of the pilot.
The accident occurred at approximately 2:10 PM local time while the aircraft was performing an advanced demonstration routine before thousands of spectators.
In a statement released shortly after the incident, the Indian Air Force confirmed the fatality:
An IAF Tejas aircraft met with an accident during an aerial display at the 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.”
Crash Captured on Video
Footage circulating on social media shows the Tejas executing a mid-air manoeuvre when it appears to abruptly lose stability.
The aircraft wobbles, flips sharply, and spirals out of control before crashing near the airfield perimeter and erupting into a massive fireball.
Rapid Emergency Response
Thick plumes of smoke rose from the crash site as firefighting and rescue teams rushed in within minutes.
Images from the scene show emergency personnel dousing the blazing wreckage with water while debris lay scattered across a secured section of the airfield.
The Dubai Media Office confirmed the accident and the pilot’s death, stating that emergency services were immediately deployed to contain the fire and secure the area.
Inquiry Ordered
The Indian Air Force has initiated a Court of Inquiry to determine the technical or operational reasons that may have led to the crash.
The Tejas—India’s indigenous multi-role fighter—has been showcased internationally as a symbol of the country’s growing defence and aerospace capabilities. This is the first recorded fatal crash of the aircraft in an international airshow.
Authorities in both India and the UAE are cooperating closely as the investigation proceeds.
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