Wing Commander Namansh Syal of the Indian Air Force lost his life after a HAL Tejas crashed during an aerobatic rehearsal at the Dubai Airshow 2025 on Friday. The aircraft failed to recover from an inverted manoeuvre and went down near the runway, according to officials. The IAF later confirmed the death of Wing Commander Namansh Syal in an official statement.
Wing Commander Namansh Syal was in his mid-30s and belonged to the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Known for his discipline, sharp judgment, and exceptional flying skills, he was one of the few pilots chosen for international aerobatic displays. His selection reflected the confidence the Indian Air Force placed in his abilities.
Who was Wing Commander Namansh Syal?
He represented the Indian Air Force at airshows around the world, showcasing India’s growing aviation capabilities. During the Dubai Air Show 2025, he was flying the single-engine HAL Tejas, which India has been promoting internationally as its indigenous light combat aircraft.
The IAF confirmed that he was unable to eject before impact. The confirmation came through a somber message issued soon after the crash.
How the crash happened
Eyewitnesses reported that the Tejas was performing a routine sequence involving a loop and a barrel roll. The aircraft entered an inverted position before beginning its descent. Instead of climbing back to complete the manoeuvre, the jet lost altitude rapidly and crashed.
Videos on social media captured the Tejas descending at high speed before exploding into flames. Experts reviewing the footage said the aircraft appeared to lose both altitude and speed during the inverted phase, leaving “no margin for correction.”
Families, aviation enthusiasts, and children attending the airshow were seen rushing to safety as thick smoke spread across the venue. Emergency crews responded immediately, containing the fire and ensuring no casualties occurred on the ground.
IAF statement
The Indian Air Force released the following statement:
“An IAF Tejas aircraft met with an accident during an aerial display at Dubai Air Show today. The pilot sustained fatal injuries in the accident. IAF deeply regrets the loss of life and stands firmly with the bereaved family in this time of grief. A court of inquiry is being ordered to ascertain the causes of the accident.”
Tributes from Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed deep grief over the loss. He said the death of “Kangra’s brave son” was heartbreaking and that the nation had lost a dedicated and courageous pilot. He added that Syal’s service and bravery would always be remembered.
About the HAL Tejas
The HAL Tejas is a 4.5-generation multirole fighter used for air defence, ground attack, maritime missions, and close combat. The latest Mk1A variant features AESA radar, electronic warfare systems, radar-warning receivers, and advanced multifunction displays.
In other news read more about Tejas Fighter Aircraft Costs Around $60 Million Per Jet
The crash marks only the second known Tejas accident, raising fresh questions about its performance during high-precision aerobatic displays.
