A major aviation showcase turned tense on Friday when an Indian Air Force Tejas fighter jet crashed during a flying demonstration at the ongoing Dubai Air Show. The crowd, which had gathered to witness one of the world’s biggest aviation events, saw the aircraft go down shortly after beginning a manoeuvre. Thick smoke rose from the crash site, overshadowing the otherwise high-profile exhibition.
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. Indian Air Force deeply regrets the loss of life and stands firmly with the bereaved family in this time of grief. A court of… https://t.co/vDvSuwvdOf pic.twitter.com/B7FG0CxgIp
— ANI (@ANI) November 21, 2025
Eyewitness Says Tejas Performed Low Roll Before Crashing
The Tejas jet went down during a flying routine, sending flames and smoke into the air. According to an eyewitness quoted by AFP, the jet performed a low roll moments before the crash. The aircraft reportedly struck the ground about a mile (1.6 kilometres) from the main show area.
Videos on social media showed the fighter jet hitting the ground and bursting into a fireball.
⚡️BREAKING: IAF Tejas Fighter Jet CRASHES During Dubai Air Show Display pic.twitter.com/tEg5h7WCxH
— RT_India (@RT_India_news) November 21, 2025
Second Tejas Crash in Two Years
Friday’s accident marks only the second crash involving a Tejas fighter jet. The previous incident took place on March 12, 2024, near Jaisalmer in Rajasthan. In that case, the single-engine Tejas crashed minutes after taking part in the Bharat Shakti tri-services exercise. The pilot had safely ejected.
The Tejas involved in the Jaisalmer crash was part of the LCA Mk-1 fleet. It had showcased India’s indigenous defence capabilities before the accident.
Global Aviation Giants Attend 2024 Dubai Air Show
The Dubai Air Show, held once every two years, is currently underway and marks 40 years of Emirates Airlines. The event has drawn aerospace professionals from more than 150 countries. Companies including Bombardier, Dassault Aviation, Embraer, Thales, Airbus, Lockheed Martin, and Calidus are showcasing new technology and weapons systems.
The event is regarded as a major global platform for military and commercial aircraft manufacturers. It typically sees large defence announcements, commercial aircraft orders, and next-generation technology displays.
Crash Occurred During High-Profile Event at Dubai Airport
The crash took place around 2:10 pm local time near Al Maktoum International Airport, where the air show is being held. The Dubai Air Show has already made international headlines this week due to multi-billion-dollar aircraft orders placed by Emirates and FlyDubai.
Authorities in Dubai are conducting investigations.
