IAF pilot Namansh Syal loses life in Tejas crash at Dubai Airshow
Wing Commander Namansh Syal, in his mid-30s, of the Indian Air Force tragically died on Friday when his Tejas fighter jet crashed during a low-altitude aerobatic show at the Dubai Air Show.
The accident happened near Al Maktoum International Airport and led to a fire.
The IAF has confirmed his passing and ordered an investigation into what went wrong.
Who was Wing Commander Syal?
Syal grew up in Patiyalkar village, Himachal Pradesh, and was known as a standout student and athlete at Sainik School Sujanpur Tira.
He played an important role in flying India's homegrown Tejas jets.
He is survived by his parents, wife (also an Air Force officer), and their six-year-old daughter.
His school community gathered for a prayer meeting to remember him.
Why the Tejas program matters
The Tejas fighter is a big step for India's defense independence, widely recognized for helping reduce reliance on foreign aircraft.
Fatal incidents like this are rare but deeply felt within the IAF community.