India’s indigenous fighter jet programme suffered a major setback on Friday after a Tejas Mark-1 fighter jet crash during a demo flight at the Dubai Airshow, resulting in the tragic death of Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot Wing Commander Namansh Syal. The incident has raised serious concerns over the export prospects and operational performance of the homegrown aircraft, which has otherwise maintained a strong safety record.
The accident occurred around 2:10 pm (local time) at the Al Maktoum International Airport. The Tejas was performing a low-altitude aerobatic manoeuvre when it failed to recover from a negative G-turn, causing the aircraft to nose-dive and explode on impact in full view of the airshow audience. Videos from the venue showed a massive fireball and thick smoke moments after the crash.
Pilot Wing Commander Namansh Syal Could Not Eject in Time
Wing Commander Syal, an experienced fighter pilot from Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, was currently posted at the Sulur IAF base in Tamil Nadu. He could not eject before the aircraft hit the ground.
He is survived by his wife—herself a retired Wing Commander—and their seven-year-old daughter.
Second Tejas Crash in 10 Years
The Tejas, manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and powered by the GE-F404 engine, has had only one previous crash in March 2024 near Jaisalmer, where the pilot ejected safely.
Despite this, Tejas has been considered one of the safest platforms in its category since its first squadron, 45 Flying Daggers, was raised in 2016.
IAF Orders Court of Inquiry
Following the accident, the Indian Air Force announced a Court of Inquiry (CoI) to investigate the cause. Dubai aviation authorities are coordinating with the IAF as the aircraft’s black box has been recovered.
A veteran fighter pilot, speaking anonymously, said possible causes could include:
- Sudden engine power loss
- Flight control malfunction
- Spatial disorientation during negative G manoeuvres
Pilots are trained to handle such forces, but low-level aerobatics leave minimal room for error.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Reacts
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed deep anguish over the loss, stating that the nation “stands firmly with the bereaved family.” He noted that military aviation remains inherently high-risk, especially when aircraft are pushed to their limits.
