Dubai: Indian Tejas fighter jet crashes at Dubai Air Show; Cause under investigation

The crash happened around 2.10 pm local time at Al Maktoum International Airport, according to event organizers. Spectators reported seeing thick black smoke rising from the site, followed by the sound of sirens as emergency services rushed in.

Post Published By: Sujata Biswal
Updated : 21 November 2025, 4:21 PM IST
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Dubai: A major accident occurred during the Dubai Air Show today when an Indian HAL Tejas fighter jet crashed mid-air while performing a demonstration flight.

The crash happened around 2.10 pm local time at Al Maktoum International Airport, according to event organizers.

The pilot's condition remained unclear after the crash, and it's unclear whether he ejected in time. Security agencies immediately launched a rescue operation. A large number of people, including women and children, had come to watch the Dubai Air Show. The crowd witnessed the plane crash, and then the sudden smoke created panic.

Fire brought under control in less than an hour
According to Dubai local media, eyewitnesses reported that helicopters and fire brigades arrived at the scene immediately after the crash and the fire was brought under control. The entire incident was brought under control within about 45 minutes. It's unclear whether the event will resume.

Air show officials immediately sealed off the crash area and temporarily suspended all flight programs. An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the crash. The Indian side is also continuing to contact and gather information.

Learn about the Dubai Air Show
Under the theme "The Future is Here," the air show is being held at Dubai World Central from November 17th to 21st. This is the 19th edition of the Dubai Air Show. This year, a record number of over 200 aircraft are on display, including commercial, military, private jets, UAVs, and new-generation aerospace technologies. It is the largest flying and static display ever held. The event is attended by 148,000 trade visitors and 490 military and civilian delegations from 115 countries.

The powerful Tejas is completely indigenous
The Indian Air Force's Tejas fighter aircraft is a modern fighter jet completely manufactured in India. It has been designed to be lighter, faster, and more agile, enabling it to easily perform a variety of combat missions. Developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the Tejas is considered an important symbol of the country's indigenous defense capabilities. Its design and structure incorporate several advanced technologies.

Tejas is a 4.5-generation aircraft, featuring modern avionics, superior weapon systems, and excellent maneuvering capabilities. Despite its small and lightweight design, it possesses supersonic flight capabilities, meaning it can fly faster than the speed of sound. Its speed, agility, and technical specifications make it a potent and reliable fighter aircraft in the Indian Air Force fleet.

 

Location : 
  • New Delhi

Published : 
  • 21 November 2025, 4:21 PM IST