DUBAI: An Indian Air Force pilot was killed in a crash during an aerial display at the Dubai Airshow on Friday.
Dubai Media Office said firefighting and emergency teams responded rapidly after the Tejas fighter aircraft hit the ground “resulting in the tragic death of the pilot.”
The Indian Air Force said that the jet “met with an accident” during an aerial display.
“The pilot sustained fatal injuries in the accident,” the statement said. “IAF deeply regrets the loss of life and stands firmly with the bereaved family in this time of grief.”
A Tejas fighter aircraft from India participating in today’s flying display at the Dubai Airshow has crashed, resulting in the tragic death of the pilot. Firefighting and emergency teams responded rapidly to the incident and are currently managing the situation on-site. pic.twitter.com/LpdE87YjLM
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) November 21, 2025
The IAF has launched an inquiry to find out what caused the accident.
The Dubai Airshow Organizing Committee “extended its heartfelt condolences” to the pilot’s family.
“The committee also conveys its deepest sympathies to the Indian Air Force.”
The UAE’s foreign ministry offered “condolences and sympathy to the family of the pilot, as well as to the government and people of India, over this tragic incident.”
The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi said: “We deeply regret and condole the loss of life in the accident involving IAF Tejas aircraft at Dubai Air Show.
“Embassy and consulate teams are on the ground and extending all assistance. We are in touch with UAE authorities in the matter.”
The accident took place on the final day of the five-day Dubai Airshow, which was held at Dubai World Central.
