Dubai, Nov 21: An Indian Air Force Tejas fighter jet crashed during an aerial demonstration at the Dubai Air Show on Friday afternoon, with the IAF confirming the pilot's death after the HAL-built light combat aircraft went down around 2:10 PM local time while manoeuvring before spectators near the airport.

The Indian Air Force confirmed the crash and said details were being collected. In a brief statement, the IAF noted that further information would be shared once available.

#WATCH | Dubai | An IAF Tejas fighter aircraft has crashed during the Dubai Air Show; no pilot ejection has been detected so far. This is only the second reported accident involving the Tejas jet. More details awaited. #DubaiAirShow #Tejas #IAF #Breaking pic.twitter.com/04zcckv8xA

— Argus News (@ArgusNews_in) November 21, 2025

Eyewitnesses, including families and aviation enthusiasts present at the show, described a sudden plume of smoke rising from the crash site, following which emergency teams rushed to the area.

Also Read: Tragedy In Louisville: UPS Cargo Plane Crashes After Takeoff, 3 Dead

Tejas is a 4.5-generation multi-role fighter aircraft capable of offensive air support, close combat and ground strike operations. Designed as one of India’s most versatile indigenous platforms, the aircraft can also undertake maritime missions. The Tejas family includes single-seat variants for the Air Force and Navy, as well as twin-seat trainer models.

The latest LCA Mk1A variant features major upgrades, including an AESA radar, an advanced electronic warfare suite, smart multifunction displays and enhanced survivability systems, according to data published by HAL.