A tragic accident at the Dubai Airshow claimed the life of Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot Wing Commander Namansh Syal on Friday. His father, Jagan Nath Syal, discovered the devastating news while browsing YouTube videos of the ongoing airshow.
Indian Air Force pilot Wing Commander Namansh Syal was performing a demonstration flight at the Dubai Airshow when his Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA Mk-1) crashed. The accident occurred during low-level aerobatic manoeuvres on the final day of the event, which began on November 17.
Father Learns of Tragedy Through YouTube
Jagan Nath Syal, a retired school principal from Kangra in Himachal Pradesh, said he first learned of the crash while searching for videos of the airshow.
“Around 4 pm today, I was searching videos of the ongoing air show in Dubai on YouTube when I saw reports about the plane crash,” he told The Indian Express.
The grieving father added that he had spoken to his son a day before the incident. Namansh had asked him to watch his performance on television or YouTube. After seeing the reports, Jagan Nath immediately called his daughter-in-law, Namansh’s wife, who is also an IAF Wing Commander.
“Moments later, at least six Air Force officers arrived at our house and I realised something bad happened to my son,” he said.
Shocking Visuals of the Crash
Video footage of the crash shows the Tejas jet nosediving and hitting the ground, followed by a large plume of smoke. People around the area can be heard gasping in shock as the accident unfolded.
The IAF confirmed the death of Wing Commander Syal.
“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,” the force said in a statement on X.
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…
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) November 21, 2025
A court of inquiry has been announced to investigate the cause of the crash. The results of the probe are expected to shed light on what led to the fatal accident.
Tribute to a Brave Pilot
The Dubai Airshow is one of the world’s leading aerospace events, attracting aviation professionals and enthusiasts from around the globe. This tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the Indian Air Force and the aviation community.
Wing Commander Namansh Syal’s family, colleagues, and admirers remember him as a talented pilot who represented India with dedication and courage.
