Indian plane crashes during a demonstration at the Dubai air show

An Indian Air Force Tejas fighter jet participating in a demonstration at the Dubai Air Show crashed on Friday afternoon, plunging to the ground around 2:10 pm local time while executing an aerial display before a large crowd.

The IAF confirmed the incident, saying it was still gathering information. “A Tejas of IAF has crashed in Dubai Air Show-25. Further details are being ascertained at the moment. Will give further details in some time,” an Air Force spokesperson said.

Plumes of thick black smoke rose from the crash site near the airport, causing panic among spectators, including families and children who had gathered for the show. It is still unknown whether the pilot was able to eject before the aircraft went down.

Authorities have yet to release further details as emergency teams rushed to the scene.

It was not immediately clear if the pilot ejected from the aircraft, the Associated Press reported.

Black smoke rose over the Al Maktoum International Airport - which was hosting the biennial air show - and sirens sounded after the crash. 

The Indian HAL Tejas, a combat plane used in the Indian Air Force, crashed at around 2.10pm local time (10.10am UK time) during a demonstration flight as a crowd of spectators watched. 

Moment an Indian Air Force Tejas fighter jet participating in a demonstration at the Dubai Air Show crashed on Friday afternoon, plunging to the ground around 2:10 pm local time while executing an aerial display before a large crowd. pic.twitter.com/ROxESgq73q

— Olomo TIMES (@Olomotimes) November 21, 2025

What is Tejas?

Tejas is a 4.5-generation fighter aircraft designed to handle offensive air support, close combat and ground attack missions, as per a description on the HAL website. Built for versatility, it is also engineered to perform ground and maritime operations, making it one of India’s most adaptable indigenous platforms. The Tejas family includes single-seat fighter variants for both the Air Force and Navy, as well as twin-seat trainer versions for each service.