In a tragic incident, an Indian Air Force Tejas fighter jet crashed during a performance at the Dubai Air Show on Friday. According to reports, the incident took place at 2:10 pm. The pilot sustained fatal injuries in the accident.

Photos and videos shared online show plumes of black smoke billowing into the air from the aircraft on the ground.

The aircraft, a single seat light combat aircraft (LCA), was developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). 

Defence sources said that the fate of the pilot is being ascertained.  The Dubai Airshow is a biennial event and is considered one of the world’s largest aviation exhibitions.

The Indian Air Force said, “An IAF Tejas aircraft met with an accident during an aerial display at the Dubai Air Show today. The pilot sustained fatal injuries in the accident. Indian Air Force deeply regrets the loss of life and stands firmly with the bereaved family in this time of grief. A court of inquiry is being constituted to ascertain the cause of the accident.”

Another eyewitness cited by the Khaleej Times said that helicopters and firefighters rushed to the scene. “It is all clear now,” he said. “Within about 45 minutes, the entire incident was taken care of. We are not sure if the programme will restart.”

Gulf News reported that the show was temporarily halted, and visitors were directed back to the exhibition area.