Dubai/New Delhi : A tragic incident unfolded at the Dubai Air Show 2025 when a Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed during a flying demonstration, resulting in the death of Wing Commander Namansh Syal.
The accident occurred on Friday afternoon near Al Maktoum International Airport, where the Tejas was performing an aerobatic manoeuvre as part of India’s showcase at the prestigious international event.
The Pilot
Wing Commander Syal, 34, hailed from Kangra district in Himachal Pradesh. He is survived by his wife, also an officer in the IAF, their six‑year‑old daughter, and his parents. Relatives from his native Patiyalkar village described him as a humble and dedicated officer who was awaiting a promotion.
The Crash
- The Tejas jet, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), went down at approximately 2:10 pm local time.
- Initial reports suggest the aircraft failed to recover from a negative‑G manoeuvre at low altitude.
- The IAF has ordered a court of inquiry to investigate the cause of the accident.
Reactions
The tragedy has cast a shadow over the Dubai Air Show, where India was showcasing its indigenous defence capabilities. Officials including Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, India’s Ambassador to the UAE Deepak Mittal, and MEA Additional Secretary Aseem R. Mahajan were present at the venue earlier in the day.
Family members and villagers back home expressed grief, saying the entire community was devastated by the loss of a promising officer.
Tejas Safety Record
This marks the second crash involving a Tejas aircraft in less than two years. In March 2024, a Tejas fighter jet crashed in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, the first such accident since the aircraft’s maiden test flight in 2001. In that case, the pilot ejected safely.
