Indian Pilot Killed in HAL Tejas Crash at Dubai Air Show

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — An Indian Air Force pilot was killed when a HAL Tejas combat aircraft crashed during a demonstration flight at the Dubai Air Show on Friday. The crash occurred around 2:10 p.m. local time as the pilot was performing maneuvers for an audience gathered at Dubai World Central.

The aircraft, which is part of India’s indigenous fighter jet program, lost altitude and dove toward the ground just before impact. Reports indicate that the plane crashed inside the airfield, producing a large plume of black smoke.

The Indian Air Force confirmed the fatality in a statement, expressing deep regret over the incident. “IAF deeply regrets the loss of life and stands firmly with the bereaved family in this time of grief,” the statement read, adding that an inquiry is underway to determine the cause of the crash.

Witnesses reported seeing flames erupting from the aircraft moments after the crash. Emergency crews quickly responded to the site, where firefighting efforts were underway. The crash disrupted the final day of the biennial air show, which hosted thousands of spectators, including families enjoying the aerial displays.

The Tejas is a lightweight, single-engine jet built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and is expected to enhance India’s air combat capabilities amid growing tensions in South Asia. India’s Defense Ministry recently signed contracts for 97 Tejas jets, with initial deliveries slated to start in 2027.

Earlier in the week, India’s Press Information Bureau denied social media claims about an oil leak involving the Tejas at the air show. In a post on X, it referred to the claims as “false” and an attempt to undermine the aircraft’s technical reliability. Last year, a Tejas jet crashed in India, but the pilot managed to eject safely.

As of now, it remains unclear whether this incident might impact future air shows or the existing contracts with HAL. The Indian government has prioritized the Tejas program due to its potential to modernize the country’s air fleet.