Tejas fighter jet crashes during Dubai air show: IAF launches probe after pilot killed — What we know so far

NEW DELHI: A Tejas fighter jet participating in the Dubai Air Show crashed on Friday after nosediving during an aerobatic display, the Indian Air Force (IAF) said in a statement. The HAL-built light combat aircraft went down at around 2.10 pm (local time) while executing a manoeuvre, sending thick black smoke across the venue as spectators looked on.

The Dubai Airshow is being held from November 17–21 at the DWC Dubai Airshow Site.

Air Force issues statement

The IAF confirmed that the aircraft crashed during a display sortie and said the pilot sustained fatal injuries. “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 statement read.

The pilot was identified as Wing Commander Namansh Syal, according to ANI. The 37-year-old hailed from Patialkadh in the Nagrota Bagwan tehsil of Himachal Pradesh.



Later, the chief of defence staff Anil Chauhan also expressed condolences for the pilot. "General Anil Chauhan, CDS and all ranks of Indian Armed Forces deeply regret the incident in which 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. We deeply regret the loss of life and stand firmly with the bereaved family in this time of grief," said the statement posted by Integrated Defence Staff HQ.

Inquiry ordered

A court of inquiry has been constituted to investigate the cause of the crash, said the IAF. "A court of inquiry is being constituted, to ascertain the cause of the accident," it said.

Also read: Tejas fighter jet crashes during Dubai air show; eyewitness footage captures impact

Crash took place mid-display

The jet appeared to nose-dive while performing a manoeuvre before crashing near the runway. Smoke was seen rising from the site as emergency crews responded. Spectators, including families and children, witnessed the incident.

The air show was on its final day, hosted at Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central.

Select The Times of India as your preferred source on Google Search