INDIAN FIGHTER JET CRASHES DURING DUBAI AIRSHOW DISPLAY

A fatal crash involving an Indian Air Force HAL Tejas occurred on November 21, 2025, during a flying display at the Dubai Airshow. The single-engine fighter entered a steep, low-altitude maneuver before losing control and striking the ground near the showgrounds at Al Maktoum International Airport. A large fireball rose from the impact point as emergency crews moved in and evacuated nearby spectators. The pilot did not survive the accident, according to an official statement released by the Indian Air Force.

Final Moments of the Flight

Multiple videos captured the aircraft’s descent. The jet entered a vertical maneuver shortly after beginning its aerobatic routine, then dropped rapidly with no visible attempt at ejection. The aircraft hit the ground and exploded, sending smoke high above the airport. Firefighting teams responded within moments and secured the area while airshow organizers suspended all flying for the afternoon.

Crowds attending the final day of the event witnessed the impact. Families and aviation enthusiasts seated along the grandstands reacted as the jet appeared to lose control during its demonstration. Authorities later confirmed that an investigation had begun to study aircraft performance, pilot inputs, and environmental factors present at the time of the accident.

Recent Concerns

The crash marks the second loss of a Tejas fighter. The first occurred in March 2024 when a Mk1 variant went down in Rajasthan after an engine seizure. The aircraft involved in the Dubai crash had already drawn online attention a day earlier when a video showed liquid dripping from its underside while parked on the tarmac. Indian officials stated that the fluid was condensed water collected during routine drainage procedures in humid conditions.

The Tejas had performed multiple displays earlier in the week, drawing interest from regional defense observers. The aircraft was deployed to the Dubai Airshow as part of India’s effort to present its indigenous light fighter to potential export markets.

Ongoing Investigation

The Tejas is a cornerstone of India’s domestic fighter development program intended to modernize their fighter fleet and replace older platforms. In September 2025, India signed a major contract for 97 Tejas Mk1A aircraft which will expand the fleet to more than 180 fighters.

Indian and Emirati investigators are conducting parallel inquiries into the cause of the accident. Their work will focus on flight data, witness accounts, and maintenance records.