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IAF Tejas Jet Crashes at Dubai Airshow, Pilot Killed

An Indian Air Force Tejas fighter jet crashed during the Dubai Airshow, killing the pilot and prompting an inquiry into the cause.

November 21, 2025
in National

IAF Tejas Jet Crashes at Dubai Airshow, Pilot Killed

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An Indian Air Force Tejas fighter aircraft crashed during an aerial display at the Dubai Airshow 2025 on Friday, resulting in the death of the pilot. The aircraft went down at approximately 2:10 pm local time while performing a demonstration at Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai World Central.

The pilot was identified as Squadron Leader Naman Syal from Kangra. Official sources confirmed that no ejection was observed in the video footage circulating online, which showed the jet descending rapidly before erupting in flames upon impact.

Emergency teams responded immediately as thick smoke rose from the crash site, witnessed by hundreds of spectators, including families attending the biennial airshow. Authorities have initiated a court of inquiry to determine the cause of the accident.

The Tejas fighter jet, developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency and produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, is India’s first indigenously designed combat aircraft. The Indian Air Force currently operates the Mk1 version and awaits deliveries of the Mk1A variant.

This incident marks only the second recorded crash involving the Tejas platform since its induction. The previous crash occurred near Jaisalmer last year, in which the pilot safely ejected.

India recently signed a major contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited to procure 97 additional Tejas aircraft, with deliveries expected from 2027. An earlier order for 83 jets, placed in 2021, has seen delays due to engine supply constraints.

The crash has raised fresh questions about flight safety and operational readiness as India expands its modern fighter fleet.