Indian Fighter Jet Pilot Dies in Dubai Airshow Crash

An Indian Air Force pilot has been killed after a Tejas fighter jet crashed during a display at the Dubai Airshow, BBC reports.

The IAF expressed condolences, saying it «deeply regrets the loss of life and stands firmly with the bereaved family». A court of inquiry is being established to determine the cause of the accident.

The crash occurred at around 14:10 local time (10:10 GMT), according to reports. Dubai emergency services responded swiftly, with firefighters and first responders managing the situation on-site. Footage from the scene showed black smoke rising into the sky.

India’s Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Anil Chauhan, said all ranks of the Indian Army «deeply regret the incident» and stand with the pilot’s family.

The fatal accident took place on the final day of the Dubai Airshow 2025 at Al Maktoum International Airport, which has drawn more than 148,000 visitors and exhibitors from 1,500 companies.