(Image source from: AFP)

A Tejas fighter plane went down on Friday afternoon while showing off its flying skills at the Dubai Air Show, creating a large cloud of dark smoke above Al Maktoum International Airport as onlookers watched. The aircraft, which is a single-seat Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) made by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), crashed at approximately 2:10 pm local time, as reported by people who saw it and videos that were shared by the media. Officials have not yet confirmed the pilot's status or if they managed to eject. An official response from the Indian Air Force is expected. This incident happened during the biennial Dubai Air Show, which is one of the biggest aviation events globally. This week, the show has featured significant announcements, including huge airplane deals from Emirates and FlyDubai.

This event is the second time a Tejas aircraft has crashed in under two years. In March 2024, a Tejas fighter plane crashed in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, marking the first accident in the plane's 23-year history since its first test flight in 2001. In that situation, the pilot successfully ejected. The Tejas is designed as a 4.5-generation multi-role combat aircraft suited for air defense missions, offensive air support, and close combat tasks. It is recognized for being among the lightest and smallest jets in its category. A notable feature of this plane is its Martin-Baker zero-zero ejection seat, which enables pilots to safely eject even when flying at low altitudes or slow speeds, like during takeoff, landings, or low maneuvers. The system works by using an explosive charge to remove the canopy, push the pilot away from the aircraft, and deploy parachutes to stabilize their descent.