Dubai/New Delhi: An Indian Air Force Tejas light combat aircraft crashed during a demonstration at the Dubai Air Show on Friday, resulting in the death of the pilot and bringing the final day of the event to a tragic halt. The aircraft went down around 2:10 pm local time near the Al Maktoum International Airport as it executed an aerial manoeuvre.
Eyewitnesses reported that the jet dipped suddenly during its routine display, struck the ground, and exploded into a massive fireball. Thick black smoke rose over the venue as emergency teams from the UAE rushed to contain the blaze and secure the area.
The pilot, identified as Wing Commander Namansh Syal, succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash. His passing marks the first fatal incident involving the Tejas aircraft, which is India’s indigenous fighter jet developed to strengthen the country’s air combat capabilities.
The Indian Air Force has ordered a detailed investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident. The mishap occurred on the concluding day of the nine-day aviation event, where the Tejas was showcased as part of India’s growing defence and aerospace presence on the global stage.
The crash is being viewed as a significant setback for the Tejas program, which has been undergoing trials and international demonstrations to highlight its operational strength and export potential.
