A pilot had died after jet crashed at the Dubai Air Show during a demonstration flight, the Indian Air Force said.
The Indian HAL Tejas – a combat plane used in the Indian Air Force – was completing a demonstration flight as spectators watched along when it crashed about 2.10pm local time (10.10am GMT).
A witness said the fighter jet was flying at a low altitude before coming down in a ball of fire.
Footage from Al Maktoum International Airport showed black smoke rising from the crash site.
Al Maktoum International Airport is the host of the biennial air show, with sirens heard following the crash.
It is the second known crash of the fighter jet, powered by General Electric GE.N engines.
The first crash occurred during an exercise in India last year.
The Indian Air Force confirmed the pilot died in the crash.
Black smoke and fire seen directly after the crash
|
REUTERS
“IAF deeply regrets the loss of life and stands firmly with the bereaved family in this time of grief,” the force added.
“A court of inquiry is being constituted, to ascertain the cause of the accident.”
The crash took place on the last day of the air show.
It is the biggest aviation event in the Middle East and started on Monday.
Firefighting and emergency teams responded rapidly to the incident and are currently managing the situation on-site | DUBAI MEDIA OFFICE
An Indian expat, who witnessed the accident, said “it was a wonderful show until this tragic accident”.
“Shocking all of us watching the air show,” he told Gulf News.
“From the way the flight turned before it went down, I strongly feel the pilot tried to save the spectators.
“It’s so unfortunate that he couldn’t escape.”
The man further said it was “deeply” saddening to see someone die “before our eyes”.
“The pain is even greater knowing it was an Indian fighter jet pilot,” Mr Jabbar said.
The UAE Defence Ministry said emergency and firefighting teams were on site.
