Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) has clarified that the recent Tejas fighter jet crash in Dubai was an isolated incident that occurred under exceptional circumstances. The statement came after an Indian Air Force (IAF) officer lost his life when the aircraft went down during a demonstration at the Dubai Airshow.
The crash happened on Friday when the Tejas fighter jet crashed and caught fire in front of spectators at the event. The IAF has announced that a court of inquiry will investigate the crash’s cause. The incident shocked attendees at the airshow, given that the light combat aircraft is a significant part of India’s defense display abroad.
In a statement released on Monday, HAL emphasized that the crash should not be considered indicative of the aircraft’s overall performance. The company, responsible for manufacturing the Tejas powered by General Electric engines, assured that there would be no disruption to its daily operations or future deliveries. HAL also confirmed its full cooperation with the ongoing investigation.
In a filing to the BSE, HAL stated, “We would like to clarify that the recent incident at the Dubai Air Show was an isolated event due to exceptional circumstances. We assure that our business operations, financial performance, and future deliveries remain unaffected. The Company is fully supporting the investigating agencies.”
Following the crash, HAL’s stock experienced a decline, dropping by 8% over the past five days and trading 3.14% lower at Rs 4,450.70 as of 1:40 PM on Monday. The pilot involved in the crash was identified as Squadron Leader Naman Syal from Kangra, flying the Tejas jet during the display at Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai World Central. Video footage captured the jet descending before erupting into flames.