Dubai: A tragic accident struck the Dubai Airshow 2025 on Friday when an Indian Air Force Tejas Mk-1 fighter jet crashed during a high-speed aerobatic display, killing the pilot. The incident occurred at the Al Maktoum International Airport, stunning the crowd gathered for the final day of the international aviation event.
The aircraft, one of the 38 Tejas Mk-1 fighters delivered to the IAF and operating from Naliya air base, was performing a manoeuvre when it suddenly lost altitude and plunged to the ground, erupting into a massive fireball. Videos from the venue showed thick black smoke rising moments after the impact.
IAF Confirms Pilot’s Death; Probe Ordered
The Indian Air Force confirmed the fatality in an official statement.
“The pilot sustained fatal injuries in the accident. The IAF deeply regrets the loss of life and stands with the bereaved family. A court of inquiry has been ordered to determine the cause,” the statement posted on X said.
An IAF Tejas aircraft met with an accident during an aerial display at 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.
A court of inquiry is being…
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) November 21, 2025
The crash is only the second recorded accident involving the indigenously developed Tejas fighter jet and the first to involve a loss of life.
Dubai Authorities Respond Swiftly
The Government of Dubai Media Office also confirmed the incident, saying emergency response teams, including firefighters and paramedics, reached the site within minutes and brought the situation under control.
The cause of the crash remains unknown, and investigations by both Indian and UAE authorities are expected to begin immediately.
Context: HAL Yet to Deliver Tejas Mk-1A
The crashed jet was part of the initial Mk-1 series supplied to the IAF. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has not yet delivered the upgraded Tejas Mk-1A version, which incorporates modern avionics and enhanced combat capabilities.
The accident casts a shadow over one of India’s key defence aviation programmes and raises new questions about safety during high-risk airshow demonstrations.
