Indian Air Force Suffers Another Tejas LCA Mishap, Pilot Safe
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has experienced another setback with the loss of a Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) due to an accident, although the pilot emerged unscathed, according to officials. The mishap occurred earlier this month during the landing of the fighter jet following a routine training mission at a key air base.
Reports suggest that the aircraft incurred significant damage during the landing incident and is expected to be deemed irreparable. Fortunately, the pilot successfully ejected and avoided any serious injury. In response to the incident, the IAF has commenced a thorough investigation and has mandated extensive inspections across the Tejas fleet to identify any potential systemic issues.
The aircraft involved in the accident was among the 32 single-seat Tejas Mk1 fighters delivered to the IAF by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This accident occurs as the Air Force awaits the arrival of the more advanced Tejas Mk1A variant, whose deliveries have been delayed after failing to meet several deadlines. The IAF has ordered 180 Mk1A aircraft in an effort to reinforce its fighter capabilities.
This marks the third significant accident concerning the Tejas programme. In March 2024, an LCA crashed near Jaisalmer while returning from a firepower demonstration, with the pilot successfully ejecting. The second incident took place during the Dubai Airshow in November 2025, when a Tejas crashed during an aerobatic display, tragically resulting in the pilot's death. An investigation into that crash is still ongoing.
Despite the Tejas being a vital component of India’s indigenous fighter development initiative, this recent incident has intensified examination of operational safety and maintenance protocols as the Air Force manages fleet readiness alongside the pressing need for new aircraft inductions.
