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| IAF Tejas Mk-1 aircraft crash during an aerial display at the Dubai Airshow 2025; the pilot sustained fatal injuries and a Court of Inquiry has been ordered. |
A tragic incident unfolded during the Dubai Airshow 2025 when an Indian Air Force (IAF) Tejas Mk-1 fighter jet crashed during an aerial display, resulting in the death of the pilot. The IAF confirmed the accident with deep sorrow and announced a Court of Inquiry to determine the cause. The crash occurred far from the spectator zone, preventing additional casualties.
The crash occurred on Friday, 21 November 2025, between 2:10 pm and 2:15 pm local time at the Al Maktoum International Airport, where the Dubai Airshow was being held. The Tejas was performing a demo flight on the third day of the event.
During a low-level roll manoeuvre, the aircraft suddenly lost control and spiraled toward the ground, crashing approximately 1.6 km away from the spectator stands. A fire erupted instantly, with thick black smoke rising from the site. Witnesses reported that the crash occurred barely 30–45 seconds after takeoff.
The pilot did not eject, and there are no signs indicating an attempted emergency exit. The IAF confirmed that the pilot suffered fatal injuries. The identity of the pilot has not yet been disclosed, and the IAF expressed deep condolences to the bereaved family.
Following the incident, all aerial displays were canceled for safety reasons. Fortunately, no civilians or event personnel were harmed.
The Indian Air Force released an official statement via its handle @IAF_MCC on X (formerly Twitter), confirming the accident:
“An IAF Tejas aircraft participating in the Dubai Airshow crashed during a display sortie today. The pilot sustained fatal injuries. IAF expresses deep grief over the loss of life and stands firmly with the bereaved family. A Court of Inquiry has been ordered to ascertain the cause of the accident.”
The statement was issued roughly 30 minutes after the crash.
The IAF has initiated an independent Court of Inquiry, which will examine whether the crash resulted from technical failure, pilot error, or external factors.
Early technical chatter points to potential engine or hydraulic failure, though no official confirmation has been made. Experts say losing control immediately after takeoff often indicates a critical system malfunction.
The Tejas Mk-1, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), is India’s first indigenously built 4.5-generation multirole fighter aircraft. This was its debut appearance at the Dubai Airshow, part of India’s defense export ambition.
Tejas represents a major achievement in India’s Make in India defence program. Lightweight, multi-role, and equipped with advanced avionics, it has participated in several global airshows successfully.
Its presence at the Dubai Airshow was aimed at boosting India’s defence export potential. Prior to this incident, the aircraft had delivered consistently strong international performances.
India’s Ministry of Defence expressed sorrow and assured full cooperation in the ongoing investigation. Dubai authorities also extended support to the IAF, and the event organizers issued a formal message of condolence.
Social media was filled with tributes, condolences, and eyewitness videos. Some clips circulating online — including unrelated old footage — were debunked by PIB Fact Check.
The global aviation community has reacted with sympathy, recognizing Tejas as an important symbol of India’s technological progress.
The tragic accident serves as a solemn reminder of the risks military aviators face while demonstrating the capability of frontline aircraft. As the investigation continues, condolences pour in from across the world for the pilot who lost his life in service.
The incident is still developing — readers are advised to follow only verified official sources for updates. Om Shanti.
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