In Himachal, a village grieves the loss of IAF pilot killed in Dubai Tejas crash (Source: X/ @theskindoctor13)
The Indian Air Force (IAF) on 21 November confirmed that the pilot of a Tejas fighter jet, Namansh Syal lost his life after the aircraft crashed and caught fire during a flight display on the final day of the Dubai Air Show 2025 at Al Maktoum International Airport.
Ramesh Kumar, a relative of Syal, said that Namansh’s parents are currently at the Sulur Air Force Station near Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu waiting for his son's body. His wife, who also serves in the IAF, is in Kolkata for a course. His father Jagannath Syal served in the Indian Army’s medical corps and later worked in the education department, before retiring as a principal. They received information about the crash around 5pm, when his father called him.
Wing Commander Namansh Syal, was 37 year old when he died after his Tejas LCA Mk-1 crashed following a demonstration flight at the Dubai Airshow. He belonged to Nagrota Bagwan in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, he lived with his wife, who is serving in the Indian Air Force, their six-year-old daughter and parents.
Syal completed his schooling from Sainik School, Sujanpur Tira. His father Jagannath Syal served with the Indian Army’s medical corps and then in the education department, retiring as a principal. They got to know about the crash at 5 pm around on November 21. The whole family and his village are shocked and in deep grief with his sudden and tragic death.
The death of Wing Commander Syal drew condolences from political leaders and officials. Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu mourned the death, calling him a brave and courageous pilot.
He tweeted on X, "Salute to the brave son, heartfelt salute to Syal ji's indomitable bravery, dedication and devotion towards serving the nation."
Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur expressed, “We have lost a brave, talented and courageous pilot. We are proud of your sacrifice and the entire nation is indebted to your service.”
Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla termed the incident heartbreaking and expressed profound grief over the tragedy.
The death of Wing Commander Syal is a grim reminder of the risks that military aviators take while serving their nation, in tribute to their commitment and bravery.
Also Read: IAF Tejas Jet Crashes During Dubai Air Show; Experts Cite Possible Mechanical Faults
