An Indian fighter jet crashed on Friday afternoon during an aerial demonstration at the Dubai Air Show, authorities confirmed. The HAL Tejas aircraft went down at approximately 2:10 p.m. local time while performing for spectators at Al Maktoum International Airport, the site of Dubai World Central.
Thick black smoke was seen rising from the crash area shortly afterward, and emergency sirens could be heard across the airfield. It was not immediately known whether the pilot was able to eject from the aircraft before impact.
The incident occurred during the biennial Dubai Air Show, one of the largest aviation exhibitions in the world. This year’s event features more than 200 aircraft on display and has included major commercial aviation orders from Emirates and FlyDubai.
The Tejas is India’s domestically developed lightweight fighter jet, produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The aircraft is a key component of India’s plan to modernize its air force amid growing regional security concerns, including China’s expanding military footprint in South Asia and its defence cooperation with Pakistan.
In September, India’s Defence Ministry signed a contract to procure 97 additional Tejas aircraft, with deliveries expected to begin in 2027. A previous order for 83 jets, placed in 2021, has been delayed due in part to shortages of U.S.-manufactured engines needed for production.
Further details on the crash and the status of the pilot are expected as investigations continue.
