What happened
The Tejas aircraft, taking part in a scheduled demonstration at Al Maktoum International Airport, went down at about 14:10 local time (approx.) while performing aerobatic manoeuvres. Video and witness accounts from the show captured a sudden fireball and plumes of thick black smoke rising near the display area, prompting immediate emergency response and panic among spectators.
Official response
The IAF issued a statement confirming the accident and the death of the pilot, saying a court of inquiry has been constituted to establish the sequence of events and technical causes. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed that he was “deeply anguished” and extended condolences to the bereaved family. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan also conveyed regret and solidarity with the family.
The Dubai Media Office and UAE authorities said firefighting and emergency teams responded rapidly and were managing the site. International and regional news agencies on the ground reported that the crash occurred on the final day of the five-day air show.
Pilot identity and reactions
Indian media outlets later identified the pilot as Wing Commander Namansh Syal; state and central leaders, opposition figures and defence commentators offered condolences and paid tribute to the fallen airman. Official confirmations and formal notices from the IAF remain the primary source for verified details about the pilot and the circumstances.
About the Tejas
The Tejas is an indigenously designed Light Combat Aircraft developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Aeronautical Development Agency. The Mk1A variant, operated by the IAF, includes upgrades such as an AESA radar and improved avionics.
Investigation and implications
A court of inquiry will probe technical, human and environmental factors that might have contributed to the accident. The probe will examine maintenance records, flight data, eyewitness footage and any telemetry available from the aircraft. Both Indian and Emirati agencies are expected to cooperate on site safety, wreckage recovery and technical analysis.
While the Tejas programme represents a major step in India’s push for indigenous military aviation, aviation accidents — though rare — trigger detailed reviews of aircraft systems, pilot training and operational protocols. This is the second fatal accident involving a Tejas variant in recent years and will likely prompt close scrutiny of systems and processes.
What officials say next
The IAF has asked the public and media to await the findings of the formal inquiry. RamRajya News will update this story as official reports, technical findings, or statements from authorities become available.
