The Indian Air Force pilot killed in the Tejas LCA Mk-1 crash at Dubai Airshow on Friday was identified as Wing Commander Namansh Syal.
Syal, who hailed from Kangra district in Himachal Pradesh, was reportedly attempting a vertical takeoff when the fighter jet crashed. the exact cause of the accident will be revealed only after an official court of inquiry.
CM Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu shared the pilot's image on X, saying the news of Himachal's brave son is extremely heartbreaking.
"The nation has lost a brave, dutiful, and courageous pilot," Sukhu said in the post. "I express my deepest condolences to the bereaved family members. I pay heartfelt tribute to the indomitable bravery, dedication to duty, and commitment to national service of brave son Naman Syal Ji".
The videos of the crash posted by spectators showed the aircraft abruptly losing altitude after a low-altitude manoeuvre. It quickly nosedived into the ground within seconds, leaving a ball of fire and thick black smoke over the airfield at the Al Maktoum International Airport.
"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. A court of inquiry is being constituted, to ascertain the cause of the accident," an IAF spokesperson said.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the maker of Tejas, said it is “deeply saddened” by Syal's death and expressed “heartfelt condolences” to his family.