An Indian Air Force Tejas fighter aircraft crashed in the United Arab Emirates on Friday during its participation in the Dubai Airshow 2025. The Indian Air Force confirmed the incident on X, noting that the pilot onboard succumbed to fatal injuries. Officials added that a court of inquiry has been ordered to investigate the circumstances leading to the accident.

The mishap occurred at approximately 2:10 pm local time while the jet was executing an aerial demonstration at Al Maktoum International Airport, located in Dubai World Central. Videos circulating online captured the aircraft descending rapidly before bursting into flames upon impact. No signs of ejection were visible in the footage.

The crash happened in full view of attendees, including families and aviation enthusiasts, who watched as thick smoke billowed over the runway. Emergency services were seen responding immediately to the scene.

This year’s edition of the Dubai Airshow has been a major aviation event, marked by significant aircraft orders from carriers including Emirates and FlyDubai. Authorities have not yet released further information about the causes of the crash or whether anyone else was affected.

Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the loss and the tragic crash during the aerial performance.

The Tejas fighter jet, developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency and produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, represents India’s first indigenous fighter program, though it currently uses a foreign-made engine. The Indian Air Force operates the Tejas Mk1 version and is awaiting the upgraded Mk1A fleet.

With squadron numbers falling, the IAF is heavily relying on the Tejas platform to replenish its combat strength. Friday’s crash marks only the second recorded accident involving the aircraft since it officially entered service in the mid-2010s. In the previous incident, which took place near Jaisalmer last year, the pilot managed to eject safely.

In September, the Defence Ministry finalized a deal with HAL to purchase 97 additional Tejas jets, with deliveries scheduled to start in 2027. An earlier contract signed in 2021 for 83 aircraft has faced delays due to a shortage of engines sourced from the United States.