In brief
An Indian Air Force pilot died when a Tejas fighter jet crashed at the Dubai Airshow on November 21, 2025. The incident, which occurred during a display flight, has prompted an investigation into the cause. The Indian Air Force and top military officials have expressed their condolences to the pilot's family. Emergency services promptly managed the site, where black smoke was visible.
A pilot has died after an Indian fighter jet crashed while performing a display at an airshow in Dubai, officials have said.
The Indian Air Force stated, ‘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 established to uncover the accident's cause.
The Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd's Tejas jet crashed at around 14:10 local time (10:10 GMT), according to reports. Dubai's Media Office and the UAE Ministry of Defence confirmed that firefighters and emergency services swiftly responded to manage the situation on-site, where video footage showed black smoke rising in the aftermath of the crash.
India's Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Anial Chauhan, remarked on the deep regret felt throughout the Indian Army, emphasizing their solidarity with the pilot's family. The Dubai Airshow, which began on Monday, attracted over 148,000 attendees and exhibitors from 1,500 companies, marking a significant aviation event. The fatal crash took place on the final day of the airshow held at Al Maktoum International Airport.
