An Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter jet crashed during a demonstration flight at the Dubai Airshow, killing its pilot, authorities announced Wednesday.
The single-seat HAL Tejas aircraft went down at approximately 2:10 PM local time (10:10 UTC) at Al Maktoum International Airport. The pilot died on impact.
The incident occurred while the jet was performing an aerial display for the Dubai Airshow 2025, a major international aviation event.
The Indian Air Force quickly confirmed the loss and stated it would establish an investigation committee. Its mission is to determine the precise cause of the accident.
Fire and rescue teams from the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Defense responded rapidly. They secured the crash site immediately after the incident.
General Anil Chauhan, India’s Chief of Defense Staff, expressed profound condolences. He pledged full support to the family of the deceased pilot.
Military units across India also extended their deepest sympathies. No additional injuries were reported on the ground following the crash.