Watch: Indian Tejas pilot dies in Dubai Airshow 2025 crash
Crowds ordered indoors as emergency crews move to wreckage
DUBAI – An Indian HAL Tejas fighter jet crashed during a live demonstration at the Dubai Airshow 2025, killing its pilot and forcing the immediate suspension of afternoon flying displays.
The aircraft was performing an aerial routine on the final Friday when it suddenly lost altitude and plunged towards the runway, erupting into a plume of thick black smoke visible across the outdoor viewing zones.
The Indian Air Force later confirmed that the pilot sustained fatal injuries in the accident and extended its condolences to the bereaved family, adding that a court of inquiry has been constituted to determine the cause.
An IAF Tejas aircraft met with an accident during an aerial display at Dubai Air Show, today. The pilot sustained fatal injuries in the accident.
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) November 21, 2025
IAF deeply regrets the loss of life and stands firmly with the bereaved family in this time of grief.
A court of inquiry is being…
Shock on ground
Spectators, including families and industry delegates, witnessed the jet’s abrupt drop during what was expected to be one of the day’s highlight demonstrations. Videos captured the aircraft’s smooth manoeuvres moments before a sharp dip sent it descending rapidly at around 2.10pm local time.
Terrible news of India’s Tejas crashing at the Dubai Air Show. No ejection by the pilot seen… a heartbreaking, gut-wrenching scene.
— Tejasswi Prakash (@Tiju0Prakash) November 21, 2025
It’s painful to watch our flagship fighter keep facing such incidents while the Modi government focuses more on PR than on genuinely strengthening… pic.twitter.com/6DDmfDd62l
Gasps swept through the viewing enclosures as the jet disappeared behind structures, followed seconds later by rising smoke. Attendees were immediately directed away from the runway area and escorted back to indoor exhibition halls.
Rapid response
Emergency teams reached the crash site within minutes, initiating fire suppression and securing the perimeter. Security personnel worked to clear surrounding areas and maintain controlled access for investigators.
A deeply painful moment for Indian aviation. Watching Tejas crash with no sign of ejection is something that leaves you shaken. Our pilots carry the nation’s pride every time they fly, and seeing this feels like a punch to the heart. Still waiting for clarity, but the visuals… pic.twitter.com/BDlJhnC4k4
— Shashank Singh (@shashank_seo) November 21, 2025
Airshow officials confirmed that afternoon flying operations were halted pending safety checks and ongoing emergency procedures. The fatal crash cast a sombre atmosphere over the event, attended by more than 1,500 exhibitors and delegations from around the world.
Inquiry underway
The Indian Air Force announced that a court of inquiry will examine all circumstances surrounding the incident, including aircraft performance, flight records and visual evidence captured by spectators and official cameras.
The Tejas, showcased as part of India’s participation in the global aviation exhibition, had been scheduled for multiple appearances before the tragic accident brought the final Friday demonstrations to an abrupt stop.