New Delhi – Amid widespread reports suggesting that an LCA Tejas fighter jet had crashed, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has issued a formal clarification, stating that no crash occurred. HAL described the incident as a minor technical snag on the ground during landing, aiming to quell speculation surrounding the Indian Air Force’s indigenous fighter aircraft.
HAL Confirms Safety and Denies Crash
HAL took to X (formerly Twitter) to address the media reports, categorically denying any crash. The aerospace company stated, “HAL acknowledges the recent media reports on the LCA Tejas Fighter Jet incident and wishes to provide factual clarification. There has been no reported crash of the LCA Tejas Fighter Jet . The event in question was a minor technical incident on ground.”
HAL acknowledges the recent media reports on the LCA Tejas incident and wishes to provide factual clarification. There has been no reported crash of the LCA Tejas. The event in question was a minor technical incident on ground.
— HAL (@HALHQBLR) February 23, 2026
The company also reaffirmed the aircraft’s strong safety record and noted that the issue is being investigated thoroughly as part of standard procedures. HAL emphasized that it is working closely with the Indian Air Force (IAF) to ensure a speedy resolution.
Rumours Triggered by Landing Incident
Speculation began circulating after claims emerged that a Tejas Fighter Jet had crashed during landing following a training sortie on February 7 at a forward airbase near the Pakistan border, with reports suggesting that the pilot had ejected safely. HAL has dismissed these claims as false and reiterated that the incident did not involve a crash.
Previous Tejas Fighter Jet Incidents
This clarification follows previous incidents involving the LCA Tejas. In March 2024, a Tejas Fighter Jet crashed in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, though the pilot ejected safely. In 2025, another Tejas aircraft crashed during the Dubai Air Show, resulting in the pilot’s death; investigations into that incident are ongoing.
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Tejas Fleet and Future Orders
Currently, the Indian Air Force operates 38 Tejas jets, with around 80 more under production, including 10 ready for delivery. The IAF has also placed an order for 97 LCA Tejas Mk-2 fighter jets, designed to serve as multi-role combat aircraft and gradually replace the retiring MiG-21 fleet. Meanwhile, deliveries of the Mk1A variant, ordered in 180 units, are reportedly running two years behind schedule.
HAL’s statement underscores the aircraft’s reliability and assures that all incidents are being handled with stringent safety protocols in coordination with the Indian Air Force.