Indian Air Force Tejas Aircraft Crashes at Dubai Airshow, Pilot Killed

An Indian Air Force (IAF) Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) crashed on Friday during the Dubai Airshow 2025 in the United Arab Emirates. The pilot sustained fatal injuries, the IAF confirmed in a post on X. Authorities have ordered a Court of Inquiry to determine the cause of the tragic accident.

The pilot has been identified as Squadron Leader Naman Syal from Kangra, who was flying the aircraft during the aerial display at the international aviation event.

The crash occurred at around 2:10 pm local time during a high-performance flying demonstration at Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai World Central. Video footage showed the aircraft dipping sharply before hitting the ground and erupting into a fireball. Notably, no ejection attempt was visible in the circulating videos.

The incident unfolded in full view of hundreds of attendees, including families and aviation enthusiasts. Thick plumes of black smoke rose over the runway as emergency services rushed to the scene, cordoning off the area.

This year’s Dubai Airshow saw significant aircraft announcements, with Emirates and FlyDubai placing major orders. However, details surrounding the crash, including contributing factors and technical assessments, are still emerging.

Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan expressed deep regret over the fatal incident, offering condolences and noting that the cause of the crash would be thoroughly investigated.

The Tejas, though powered by a foreign-made engine, is India’s first indigenous fighter aircraft, developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The Indian Air Force currently operates the Mk1 version, while deliveries of the upgraded Mk1A variant are ongoing.

The crash marks the second Tejas accident since its induction into the IAF in the mid-2010s. A previous incident occurred near Jaisalmer in March last year, where the pilot successfully ejected.

In September, HAL and India’s Defence Ministry signed a major agreement to procure 97 Tejas Mk1A jets for the IAF, with deliveries expected to begin in 2027. This is in addition to the 2021 contract for 83 Tejas Mk1A fighters. Delivery timelines were previously affected by delays in sourcing engines imported from the United States.