Whether or not the pilot ejected is yet unknown. We are awaiting an official statement from the Indian Air Force.
Tejas Fighter
As spectators watched, a Tejas fighter jet crashed on Friday afternoon during a flying demonstration at the Dubai Air Show, unleashing a plume of dense black smoke above Al Maktoum International Airport.
Officials did not immediately confirm the pilot’s condition or whether an ejection had taken place. We are awaiting an official statement from the Indian Air Force.
One of the biggest aviation shows in the world, the Dubai Air Show, takes place every two years. Major announcements have been made during the event this week, including orders for planes worth billions of dollars from FlyDubai and Emirates.
This is the second Tejas aircraft crash in less than two years. The first such incident in the 23-year lifespan of the aircraft since its initial test flight in 2001 occurred when a Tejas fighter crashed in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, in March 2024. In such instance, the pilot safely ejected.
The Tejas is a 4.5-generation multi-role combat aircraft designed for close-quarters fighting, offensive air support, and air defense roles. It is renowned for being among the tiniest and lightest fighters in its class.
The Martin-Baker zero-zero ejection seat, which enables pilots to safely evacuate even at zero altitude and zero speed—during takeoff, landing, or low-level maneuvers—is a crucial component of the aircraft. An explosive charge is used by the system to blow off the canopy, push the pilot out of the plane, and release parachutes to stabilize the drop.
Viewing enclosures close to the runway allowed spectators at the air show to see the crash. Videos showed the Tejas performing a showcase routine before swiftly sinking and losing altitude. A column of black smoke erupted a few seconds later, causing guests to gasp and move quickly.
India’s efforts to modernize its aging fighter fleet and lessen reliance on foreign supplies have been greatly aided by the Tejas program. In 2016, the No. 45 “Flying Daggers,” the first Tejas squadron, was admitted into the IAF.