Dubai: An Indian Air Force Tejas fighter jet crashed during an aerial demonstration at the Dubai Air Show on Friday afternoon. Wing Commander Vikram Singh, the pilot, died in the accident. The Indian Air Force confirmed the pilot suffered fatal injuries.
The jet went down around 2:10 PM local time while performing an aerobatic maneuver in front of thousands of spectators. Videos show the aircraft descending sharply before impact, followed by a thick plume of black smoke. Families and aviation enthusiasts scrambled for safety as emergency sirens echoed across Al Maktoum International Airport.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as security personnel evacuated nearby areas. Emergency response teams rushed to contain the fire and secure the site. The Dubai Air Show organizers confirmed that rescue operations are ongoing, but no further official information has been released.
This crash marks only the second Tejas accident, the first occurring in 2024 near Jaisalmer. The aircraft, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, is a 4.5-generation multirole fighter used for air support, combat, ground attack, and maritime operations. The latest LCA Mk1A variant includes AESA radar, electronic warfare systems, smart displays, and advanced avionics.
Indian defense officials and HAL have not yet issued formal statements. The Dubai Air Show has been temporarily suspended, and authorities are investigating the crash to assess damage and determine the cause.