An Indian Tejas fighter jet participating in a demonstration at the Dubai Airshow crashed on Friday afternoon.

The HAL-manufactured aircraft went down at around 2:10 pm local time while executing an aerial maneuver in front of a large audience.

Thick plumes of black smoke were seen billowing from the crash site near the airport, causing panic among spectators, including families who had gathered to enjoy the event.

Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the pilot was able to eject before the aircraft hit the ground.