Dedicated pilot: IAF honours Wing Commander Namansh Syal killed in Tejas jet crash
A message posted by the IAF reflected deeply on the officer's professional integrity and distinguished service. It was accompanied by two images of Syal, one depicting him in full ceremonial uniform and another taken beside a fighter jet, along with a video of the wreath-laying ceremony where uniformed personnel honoured him as his tricolour-draped coffin received full military rites.
New Delhi: The Indian Air Force has paid solemn tribute to Wing Commander Namansh Syal, who lost his life in a Tejas fighter jet crash during the Dubai Air Show on Friday, describing him as a dedicated air warrior whose service embodied courage and commitment.
In a post on X, the IAF shared a message commemorating the officer’s professional excellence and character: "A dedicated fighter pilot and thorough professional, he served the nation with unwavering commitment, exceptional skill and an unyielding sense of duty. His dignified persona earned him immense respect through a life devoted to service, and was visible in the send-off attended by UAE officials, colleagues, friends, and the officials of the Indian Embassy. The IAF stands in solidarity with his family in this hour of profound grief and honours his legacy of courage, devotion and honour. May his service be remembered with gratitude.”
The tribute post included two photographs of Syal, one in his ceremonial Air Force uniform and another alongside an aircraft, as well as a video documenting a formal wreath-laying ceremony where personnel in uniform paid their respects as his tricolour-draped coffin was presented with military honours.
Tragic crash during demonstration
The Light Combat Aircraft Tejas went down around 3:40 pm IST while performing a low-altitude display over Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central. Witnesses captured video footage of the aircraft sharply losing altitude before striking the ground and erupting into flames, sending a plume of black smoke skyward. Shocked spectators, including families and children, looked on from behind the safety barriers.
The Air Force later confirmed that Wing Commander Syal, believed to be in his mid-30s and a native of Himachal Pradesh, suffered fatal injuries in the crash. A court of inquiry has been initiated to determine the cause. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, which manufactures the Tejas, expressed deep sorrow over the pilot’s death and called him a courageous airman.
National leaders express condolences
Senior national figures extended condolences and praised Syal’s bravery. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described him as a "brave and courageous IAF pilot” and conveyed heartfelt sympathies to the family. Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Anil Chauhan said that the armed forces stood firmly with the bereaved. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also paid tribute, honouring his service.
Eyewitness accounts suggest attempt to prevent casualties
Several onlookers reported that Syal appeared to manoeuvre the aircraft away from crowded areas, potentially preventing greater tragedy. Indian expatriate Shajudheen Jabbar told Gulf News: "From the way the flight turned before it went down, I strongly feel the pilot tried to save the spectators. It’s so unfortunate that he couldn’t escape.”
Another witness, Winston Lobo, said he felt the impact near his residence: "I heard a loud bang. I honestly thought piles of pipes had tumbled down. The jet went down very close to our area.”
Himachal village mourns the loss
Grief swept through Syal’s native village of Patiyalkar in Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra district. He is survived by his parents, his wife — also an Air Force officer — and their six-year-old daughter. Emotional scenes unfolded as neighbours and relatives gathered to console the family.
His remains arrived at Sulur Air Force Station near Coimbatore late Saturday and are being transported to Gaggal Airport for his final rites. A prayer ceremony was held at his alma mater, Sainik School Sujanpur Tira, where teachers and alumni remembered him as an exceptional student, sportsperson and the captain of Chenab House.