TNR News Network
Dubai/New Dehli
In a tragic accident during the 2025 Dubai Air Show on friday, an Indian Air Force HAL Tejas fighter jet crashed during a flight demonstration, k*illing its sole pilot.
The incident occurred around 2:10 p.m. local time at Al Maktoum International Airport while the jet was performing aerobatic manoeuvres. Witnesses saw the aircraft lose control, dive, and burst into flames, producing a dense plume of black smoke.
Pilot Identified as kangra Native WC Naman Syal
The pilot has been identified as Wing Commander Naman Syal, aged around 34, from village Patiyalkar of Nagrota Bangwan, Kangra district in Himachal Pradesh. His death has sent waves of grief through his home state.
Syal’s background is deeply rooted in the Air Force. his wife Afsaan, is also a pilot in the Indian Air Force. The couple had a seven year old daughter. His father is a retired school principal, and his mother is a homemaker. His father also an ex service man.
Court of Inquiry has been ordered
The Indian Air Force (IAF) confirmed the fatal accident, stating the pilot sustained fatal injuries in the crash. An inquiry, in the form of a Court of Inquiry has been ordered to determine the cause of the accident.
Cm Sukhu expressed his condolences
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed his condolences, calling Syal “a brave and dedicated pilot”, whose service and sacrifice will always be remembered.
Early reports : negative G-turn or roll at very low altitude may cause of incident
The aircraft involved was a Tejas Mk-1, a light combat aircraft developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
According to early reports, the crash may have occurred during a negative G-turn or roll at very low altitude.
This is a significant blow, as the Tejas programme is a cornerstone of India’s indigenous fighter jet development.
Emergency crews responded swiftly to the crash site, but the damage was catastrophic. The Dubai Air Show organizers and Indian authorities are cooperating in the investigation.
The loss of Wing Commander Syal has deeply affected the defense community in India, especially in Himachal Pradesh, where he was regarded as a hero.
