An Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot died on Friday after a Tejas light combat aircraft (LCA Mk-1) crashed during a demonstration at the Dubai Air Show. This marks only the second Tejas crash ever recorded.
Images and videos circulating on social media showed the indigenous fighter jet hitting the ground moments after a manoeuvre and erupting into a fireball.
IAF confirms pilot’s death
In an official statement, the IAF said:
“An IAF Tejas aircraft met with an accident during an aerial display at the Dubai Air Show today. The pilot sustained fatal injuries in the accident. IAF deeply regrets the loss of life and stands firmly with the bereaved family in this time of grief.”
The force added that a court of inquiry will investigate the cause of the crash.
Second Tejas crash in programme history
This is only the second recorded crash involving the Tejas platform.
Earlier, on March 12, 2024, a Tejas Mk-1 crashed near Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, shortly after participating in the Bharat Shakti tri-services exercise. In that incident, the pilot ejected safely.
The IAF inducted its first Tejas aircraft in 2016 and currently operates two Mk-1 squadrons, each comprising 16–18 aircraft. Both jets involved in the two crashes belonged to the Mk-1 fleet, inducted under the IOC (Initial Operational Clearance) and FOC (Final Operational Clearance) configurations.
Crash occurs as IAF prepares for Mk-1A induction
The incident comes at a crucial time, with the IAF preparing to induct the advanced LCA Mk-1A, a significantly upgraded variant of the indigenous fighter.
Dubai Air Show: Key global aerospace event
The biennial Dubai Air Show—held during the 40th anniversary year of Emirates—has drawn participation from industry professionals representing 150 countries.
Major aerospace and defence companies, including Bombardier, Dassault Aviation, Embraer, Thales, Airbus, Lockheed Martin, and Calidus, showcased aircraft and systems. The event also saw major aircraft orders by Emirates and FlyDubai.
The air show began on November 17 and concluded on Friday, November 21, the same day the Tejas aircraft crashed during its aerial display.
