Indian Air Force Tejas Aircraft Crashes During Flying Display at Dubai Air Show, Pilot Dies.

National | Dated: 22 Nov 2025

An Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot lost his life when a Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas crashed during an aerobatic display at the prestigious Dubai Air Show in the UAE on November 21. The Tejas, manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), was showcasing its capabilities before an international audience when the incident occurred. The IAF has immediately ordered a Court of Inquiry (CoI) to ascertain the exact cause of the crash. The incident, being the first fatal one involving the Tejas, is considered a major setback for India's ambition to sell the indigenous 4.5-generation fighter jet to several international clients.

🎯 Key Highlights:

  • The crashed aircraft was an IAF LCA Tejas fighter jet.
  • The crash occurred during a flying display at the Dubai Air Show in the UAE.
  • The IAF has ordered a Court of Inquiry (CoI) to investigate the cause.

💡 Other Important Facts:

  • This was the second major Tejas accident, but the first involving a fatality.
  • The air show display was part of India's defence diplomacy efforts.
  • Preliminary investigation will focus on both technical failure and human factors.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

The Tejas aircraft crash occurred during which international event?

Correct Answer: Dubai Air Show

🚀 Quick Recap:

About LCA Tejas

  • (i) Type: Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), 4.5 Generation fighter. (ii) Manufacturer: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
  • (iii) Significance: Indigenous fighter jet replacing the ageing MiG-21 fleet. (iv) Export Target: Malaysia, Argentina, Philippines, and Egypt.