Wing Commander Namansh Syal’s mortal remains were brought to his hometown in Himachal Pradesh on Sunday, where emotional scenes unfolded as his wife, also an Indian Air Force (IAF) officer, paid her final tribute to her husband and fellow officer.
Tragic Loss of a Valued Pilot
Wing Commander Namansh Syal died on November 21 when the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA Mk-1) he was flying crashed during a show in Dubai. The officer, originally from Kangra district, leaves behind his wife, their six-year-old daughter, and his parents.
Heartfelt Farewell by His Wife
In visuals shared by ANI, Wing Commander Afshan was seen bidding farewell to her husband with teary eyes as she offered her final salute. IAF officers also performed a ceremonial gun salute as the remains arrived in his village, Patialkar. Residents gathered in large numbers to see the accomplished pilot one last time. The Air Force described him as a “dedicated fighter pilot” and “thorough professional.”
#WATCH | Himachal Pradesh: Wing Commander Afshan salutes her husband, Wing Commander Namansh Syal, as she pays her last respects to him.
Wing Commander Namansh Syal lost his life in the LCA Tejas crash in Dubai on 21st November. pic.twitter.com/DPKwARut4r
— ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2025
#WATCH | Kangra, Himachal Pradesh | Gun salute given to Wing Commander Namansh Syal, who lost his life in the LCA Tejas crash in Dubai on 21st November. pic.twitter.com/m8EdbmKVsu
— ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2025
How the Dubai Crash Unfolded
The crash occurred during a routine aerobatic display at the Dubai Airshow, one of the world’s biggest aviation showcases with participation from over 150 nations. Video from the final day showed the Tejas fighter suddenly losing altitude before erupting in flames and sending smoke over the airfield. A formal inquiry has been ordered to determine the cause of the incident.
A Career of Excellence
Wing Commander Syal, a former student of Sainik School Sujanpur Tira, was commissioned into the IAF in December 2009. The Air Force remembered him for his “unwavering commitment and exceptional skill.”
Tributes Pour In
Himachal Pradesh chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed deep condolences over the tragedy. Public figures, including actor Kamal Haasan, also paid respects, calling him “a brave son of India taken far too soon.”
Also Read: IAF Pilot Namansh Syal’s Body Arrives in Kangra After Dubai Air Show Crash
