Dubai Airshow 2025 crash: Timeline of fatal Tejas flight

A Tejas fighter jet of the Indian Air Force crashed during the final Dubai Airshow afternoon demo on November 21 (Friday), resulting in the death of the pilot.

Rescue operations began immediately and the show was temporarily halted.

The HAL Tejas light combat aircraft represents India’s push for a home-grown fighter capability under the "Make in India" strategy.

Here’s a timeline of how the events unfolded:

• Early afternoon (around 1:30pm): Surya Kiran aerobatic team performs a coordinated display celebrating India-UAE relations, including a heart-shaped formation. Crowds cheer and take photos.

• Just after 2:10pm: India’s Tejas fighter jet appears for its scheduled aerobatic routine (No. 3 in the lineup).

• 2:13pm: During a steep climb, the aircraft appears to lose power mid-ascent and plunges sharply towards the open ground near spectators. A deafening impact is heard.

• 2.14pm: Spectators scream and panic. Journalists and defence experts on site fear for the pilot’s survival.

• 2.15pm: Emergency response teams, including civil defence, police and paramedics, rush to the crash site. A helicopter lands as first responders secure the area.

• Show temporarily halted: Visitors are directed back toward the exhibition halls as rescue operations continue.

• 2:40pm: The rescue helicopter lifts off from the crash site. Spectators begin leaving quietly, many in shock or offering prayers.