On 21 November 2025, on the last day of Dubai Airshow, IAF’s HAL Tejas LCA Mk-1 aircraft crashed during the air show. The pilot died on the spot. The cause of the accident is not yet clear—the IAF has ordered a court of inquiry.
Key Highlights
IAF’s light combat aircraft Tejas LCA Mk-1 crashes during air show in Dubai
Pilot dies, no one injured on ground
The accident happened near the runway, away from the crowded place.
Reason unknown—IAF court of inquiry formed
This is the second major accident of Tejas after induction in 2016.
1,500+ companies and approximately 1.5 lakh visitors at Dubai Airshow
Fake “oil leak” claims had already been debunked
📰 Complete news – in simple language
Indian Air Force (IAF) HAL Tejas LCA Mk-1 aircraft crashed during a scheduled air demo on Friday afternoon, the last day of Dubai Airshow 2025 held in Dubai. The time was around 2:10–2:15 a.m. when the plane lost control and crashed near the runway, moments after takeoff.
The Indian pilot died in the accident. The serious thing was that the pilots could not eject.
Both Dubai Media Office and IAF have officially confirmed the tragic incident.
Fortunately, there is no news of anyone being injured on the ground.
📹How did the accident happen?
According to eyewitnesses and video footage, the Tejas attempted a low-altitude maneuver (reported as a loop/barrel roll) after takeoff and suddenly spiraled down.
As soon as the plane hit the ground, a big ball of fire formed and black smoke started rising.
🛫 Tejas background
Tejas is a single-engine fighter aircraft built by HAL in India.
This is the second crash since joining the IAF in 2016—the first was near Jaisalmer in March 2024, in which the pilot survived.
Recently India has signed a big contract for 97 Tejas Mk1A and this aircraft was also being promoted to Gulf countries.
🛑 Impact on Airshow
All flight demonstrations were temporarily stopped after the accident
Spectators were sent to the exhibition hall
Later ground events continued as normal
India’s Suryakiran and Sarang teams safe
Dubai Airshow witnessed 1,500+ companies and around 1.5 lakh visitors this year.
🗣️Official statement
IAF:
“The IAF is deeply saddened by the death of its brave pilot. A Court of Inquiry will investigate the cause of the accident.”
Dubai Media Office:
“Fire and emergency teams reached the spot within minutes and the situation was brought under control.”
❓ FAQ — common questions
Q. Has the pilot’s identity been made public?
No, the name has not been released yet.
Q. Is the Airshow cancelled?
No, the flying displays were stopped, but the ground events continued.
Q. Is this a case of technical fault?
The cause is still unknown—the investigation is ongoing.