India’s Tejas fighter jet crashes at Dubai Air Show, suddenly plummeting to the ground

New Delhi: An unprecedented incident has unfolded at the Dubai Air Show. India’s indigenous light combat aircraft, the LCA Tejas, suddenly crashed during a demonstration flight. The incident occurred at 2:10 p.m. local time, as thousands of spectators were watching the aircraft’s aerobatics.

The aircraft was making a spectacular turn in the air when it suddenly lost control. Within seconds, the Tejas appeared to be tilted and headed straight for the ground. Upon impact, there was a loud explosion, sending a plume of black smoke rising over Al Maktoum International Airport. The pilot’s condition remains a major concern. It is unclear whether he ejected in time. According to defense sources, this information is being verified.

The Dubai Air Show is one of the world’s premier aviation events, where airlines and military manufacturers from around the world showcase their technology. This accident has raised serious questions about the safety of the air show. Emergency teams were immediately deployed at the scene, and aviation authorities launched an investigation. However, the Indian Air Force has not issued any statement regarding the plane crash.

The Indian Air Force’s Tejas aircraft is a fighter aircraft completely manufactured in India. It is designed to be lightweight and fast, enabling it to fly more agilely and perform a variety of combat missions. It was developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). It is a 4.5-generation aircraft, meaning it incorporates many cutting-edge technologies. The Tejas is small and lightweight, and is said to be supersonic, meaning it can fly faster than the speed of sound.

The Dubai Air Show is one of the world’s largest and most influential aerospace events, but its beginnings were not as grand. When it was launched in 1986 under the name “Arab Air,” it was just a small civil aviation trade fair. It was first held at Dubai Airport in 1989, attracting only 200 exhibitors and 25 aircraft. No one imagined then that this very event would later become the world’s largest global aerospace show.

The 2025 Dubai Air Show was a prime example of this development. Held from November 17th to 21st at the Dubai World Centre, it brought together almost the entire global aerospace industry in one place. The show featured over 1,500 exhibitors, showcased over 200 advanced aircraft, and representatives from 115 countries. Significantly, 440 new participants showcased their technologies. Additionally, 12 major conferences were held, where defense, aerospace, research, new technologies, and future aviation challenges were discussed in detail.

This event is now considered the most important platform for the global defense and aerospace industry. Countries showcase their new fighter aircraft, drones, helicopters, missile systems, air defense technology, and advanced flight-related innovations. Furthermore, major defense deals, collaboration agreements, and future partnerships are also finalized on this platform. The Dubai Air Show is not just a showcase of technology, but a huge bridge to strengthen cooperation between countries – where ideas take flight and future strategic direction is determined.