Why did Dubai Airshow continue after fatal Tejas jet crash? Organisers issue statement

What was supposed to be the final day of the Dubai Airshow turned into a tragic event as an Indian fighter jet crashed during a manoeuvre, killing its pilot. As gasps of disbelief and shock rang through the crowd, organisers declared that the event would resume in two hours, while firefighters and emergency teams reached on-site.

One of the big questions in the aftermath was why the show continued despite the accident that claimed the life of Indian Air Force Wing Commander, Namansh Syal.

Recommended For You

Pearl Initiative celebrates 15 years of advancing governance excellence in the Gulf region 

UAE: A nation forged by vision, unity and transformation

Arteta fears injury woes will hamper Arsenal title charge

Dubai property prices have more than doubled per square foot in 5 years

RIT Dubai hosts UAE’s youngest university student

 

The Dubai Airshow, one of the largest in the world, has now released a statement revealing the reason behind its decision, stating it was their way to "pay tribute to his passion for aviation".

Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on Whatsapp Channels.

"In consultation with the team, the decision was made to continue the show as a mark of respect and tribute to his passion for aviation. Wing Commander Syal had been an integral part of this year's airshow, earning admiration for his skill and dedication."

Many netizens were divided online, and various teams who were part of the show chose to respond in different ways. For instance, one of the pilots for the US team, Taylor Hiester, shared why they chose to cancel their performance. On the other hand, the Russian Knights chose to continue in honour of the pilot.

The Dubai Airshow, which brought all of these aviation experts and skilled pilots together under one sky, said the "final displays after the incident were performed in his [Namansh Syal] honour".

Soon after the videos of the 90-degree fatal nosedive crash surfaced online, the Indian Air Force confirmed his death. Clips showed the jet nosediving before erupting into a massive ball of fire and thick black smoke.

The UAE Ministry of Defence and Dubai Media Office soon followed and confirmed the tragic death of the pilot from the Indian Tejas aircraft on Friday, November 21.

"A formal service was held on Saturday to celebrate his life and contribution. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences remain with his family, colleagues, and all those affected," concluded Dubai Airshow.

Hailing from the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, 34-year-old Air Force Wing Commander, Namansh Syal, was a resident of Patialkadh in Nagrota Bagwan tehsil. He is survived by his wife, who also works with the IAF as a senior officer, and a daughter.

The mortal remains of the brave pilot were transported from the UAE on Saturday, after which his family and community bid a tearful goodbye during his last rites on Sunday morning (November 23).

News that the pilot did not eject before the fatal crash sent shockwaves across India. Condolences poured in from all corners of the country, with politicians, celebrities, and citizens mourning the loss of a courageous officer who gave his life in service to the nation.

Some experts say the crash may have happened due to the stunt being performed too low to the ground. On the other hands, witnesses to the crash have now begun putting together videos of the final moments in hopes of aiding the ongoing investigation.

Laraib Anwer

laraib@khaleejtimes.com

Laraib Anwer is a Digital Journalist who loves the thrill of breaking headlines almost as much as she does unapologetically using GenZ slang. She dreams of a world free of animal cruelty and hopes to tell community stories that make a difference.