A tragic incident marked the final day of the Dubai Airshow, when an Indian-made Tejas fighter jet crashed during an aerobatic display over Al Maktoum International Airport, resulting in the immediate death of the pilot.

The Indian Air Force spokesperson confirmed that the locally manufactured multirole fighter jet went down on Friday while participating in the aerial demonstrations held as part of the show’s 19th edition.

In an official statement posted on X, the Dubai Government Media Office reported that the Indian pilot lost his life after the Tejas aircraft crashed during its performance, describing the moment as a deeply distressing event for everyone at the airshow.

This year’s Dubai Airshow, running from November 17 to 21, featured one of its largest editions to date, bringing together leading aviation, defence and advanced technology companies from across the world.

The event hosted more than 1,500 exhibitors, including 440 first-time participants, and attracted over 148,000 visitors. In addition, nearly 490 military and civilian delegations from 115 countries took part, underscoring the global significance and expanding international footprint of the Dubai Airshow.