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Sources: Anadolu Agency
Dubai, UAE – An Indian Air Force (IAF) Tejas fighter jet crashed during an aerial display at the Dubai Airshow on Friday, killing the pilot, the IAF confirmed.
The incident occurred around 2:10 pm local time (1210 GMT) at Al Maktoum International Airport, according to Indian broadcaster NDTV. Videos circulating on social media showed the single-seater jet plummeting to the ground, engulfed in thick smoke.
In a statement, the IAF expressed deep regret over the loss, saying it “stands firmly with the bereaved family in this time of grief.” The air force added that it will investigate the cause of the accident.
The Tejas aircraft, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, has been part of India’s indigenous fighter jet program since its first test flight in 2001. This crash marks the second Tejas accident in less than two years. In March 2024, another Tejas fighter crashed in Rajasthan, though the pilot ejected safely.
The IAF emphasized its commitment to safety and ongoing operational assessments following the accident. Officials at the Dubai Airshow have not yet released additional details regarding the crash.
The incident underscores the inherent risks of aerial demonstrations, even for experienced pilots flying advanced, domestically produced fighter jets.
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