IAF HAL Tejas Fighter Jet Crashes During Landing, Pilot Ejects Safely

Another locally manufactured HAL Tejas fighter jet of the Indian Air Force crashed during landing following a routine training sortie.

Indian authorities reported that the incident occurred as the aircraft was returning from a standard exercise. The pilot ejected safely using a parachute and did not sustain serious injuries.

The aircraft is believed to have suffered extensive damage and may be declared beyond repair. Following the crash, the Air Force has ordered a high-level inquiry to determine the cause and instructed a comprehensive inspection of all Tejas jets to identify any potential technical faults.

The jet involved was one of 32 single-seat aircraft delivered by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to the Air Force.

The crash occurs amid delays in the delivery of the upgraded Tejas Mark 1A variant. India has placed orders for 180 Mark 1A jets to strengthen its combat capabilities, but repeated production setbacks have hindered the programme.

This incident marks the third major accident involving Tejas aircraft. In March 2024, a jet crashed near Jaisalmer, and in November 2025, another aircraft was involved in an accident during the Dubai Airshow, resulting in the pilot’s death.

“These successive incidents have raised concerns about the safety and reliability of India’s indigenous fighter aircraft programme,” analysts noted. While the Air Force urgently requires new aircraft to boost its strength, ensuring operational safety and maintenance of the existing fleet remains a critical challenge.