What happened during the display
Video footage circulating on social media shows the Tejas manoeuvring at low altitude before it descended and exploded in flames near a fenced runway area. Emergency responders reached the site quickly, but the pilot sustained fatal injuries. The incident took place on the final day of the airshow during a low-level aerobatic demonstration.
Who was the pilot
The pilot was Wing Commander Namansh Syal of the Indian Air Force. He was lauded by the IAF for his professionalism and dedication. Local reports and the IAF noted that his last rites were conducted in his native village in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, with family and service colleagues in attendance. The IAF expressed deep sorrow and pledged full cooperation with the investigating authorities.
Investigation and official responses
The IAF has constituted a court of inquiry to investigate the circumstances of the crash. Authorities in the UAE and Indian agencies are coordinating on evidence collection, including radar recordings, ATC transcripts, and eyewitness video. HAL the aircraft manufacturer called the accident an isolated occurrence and said it would cooperate with all investigations. Analysts stress that determining the root cause will require technical data and flight-record analysis.
Context: Tejas programme and past incidents
The Tejas LCA is India’s indigenous multi-role light combat aircraft produced by HAL and powered by a U.S.-manufactured engine. The platform has been central to India’s push for self-reliance in defence aviation. This crash is the second high-profile Tejas accident in under two years, prompting renewed attention to safety reviews even as production and export interest continue. Officials emphasise that operational displays carry inherent risks, which is why strict safety protocols are applied at international airshows.
Reactions and impact
The crash drew immediate reaction from defence circles and the public. The IAF released a formal statement mourning the loss and saying it “stands firmly with the bereaved family.” Dubai Airshow organisers and UAE emergency teams were noted for rapid response at the site. Aviation communities have debated whether the show should have continued immediately after the accident; some visiting pilots criticised the decision to resume flying displays.
What investigators will examine
Investigators will review flight-data sources, maintenance records, pilot logbooks, and airshow procedures. Given the low-altitude aerobatics involved, they will also analyse whether environmental factors, mechanical failure, or human factors contributed. Findings from the court of inquiry will guide any required regulatory or procedural changes for future displays.
Where to find official updates
Readers seeking official updates should follow statements from the Indian Air Force and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, and UAE aviation authorities. For background on the Tejas programme and official releases, see the Ministry of Defence and HAL portals.
