Eyewitness footage shows thick black smoke after impact; Indian authorities dismiss viral “oil leak” rumours as routine water drainage.
Tejas Fighter Jet Crashes During Demo Flight at Dubai Air Show
A HAL Tejas light combat aircraft of the Indian Air Force crashed on Friday during a demonstration flight at the Dubai Air Show, sending shockwaves across the global aviation and defence community.
The incident occurred around 2:10 pm local time, moments after the aircraft began its aerial manoeuvre. Eyewitness videos from the venue showed the jet descending rapidly before crashing, followed by dense black smoke rising from the impact site.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the pilot managed to eject safely, and an official detailed statement from the Indian Air Force is awaited.
Viral ‘Oil Leak’ Claims Dismissed by Indian Govt
Earlier in the day, social media was flooded with videos suggesting that the Tejas Mk1 had suffered an oil leak at the airshow.
However, India’s Press Information Bureau (PIB) issued a strong clarification, calling these claims misleading.
PIB’s Explanation:
- The liquid seen dripping from the aircraft was condensed water,
- It came from the Environmental Control System (ECS),
- The process is normal, especially in hot and humid conditions like Dubai.
Officials reiterated that the aircraft was airworthy, and there was no technical leak before the demonstration.
Crash Investigation Underway
Dubai authorities and Indian defence officials are coordinating to:
- Secure the crash site,
- Assess aircraft debris,
- Analyse possible technical causes,
- Confirm pilot status and safety details.
The Tejas was participating in the Dubai Air Show as part of India’s efforts to showcase the capabilities of its indigenous fighter programme on the global stage.
Key Points
- HAL Tejas LCA crashed during demo at Dubai Air Show.
- Thick smoke witnessed; no confirmation yet on pilot ejection.
- Government rejects viral “oil leak” claims as routine ECS water drainage.
- Investigation into the crash has begun.
