Overview
- The single-seat HAL-built Tejas light combat aircraft went down around 2:10 p.m. local time during a flying demonstration at Al Maktoum International Airport.
- Video from the venue showed the jet descending rapidly before impact, followed by an explosion and thick black smoke rising over the airfield.
- The Indian Air Force confirmed the crash and said further details are being ascertained, with additional information to follow.
- Emergency responders reached the scene, the show was temporarily halted, and visitors were directed away from the display area.
- The Tejas program, produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, has faced engine supply delays from GE in recent years, with no evidence linking those issues to Friday’s accident.