SHOW STOPPER

The 19th edition of the Dubai Airshow recorded deals worth a historic USD 202 billion, but was marred by the unfortunate fatal crash of an IAF Tejas fighter jet. ATUL CHANDRA reports

- ATUL CHANDRA

The Dubai Airshow is now firmly ensconced as one of the most important defence and commercial aviation exhibitions in the world, and this year's edition witnessed record deals crossing $202 billion, twice the $101 billion worth of deals inked at the 18th edition in 2023. However, the 19th edition of the airshow was marred by the unfortunate display flying accident involving an Indian Air Force (IAF) Tejas Mk-1 fighter jet, which resulted in the death of Wing Commander Namansh Syal. This is only the second crash of the Tejas fighter jet and the first fatality involving the type, which has demonstrated an excellent safety record.

Display Dangers

Aerobatic flying displays at airshows involving fighter aircraft are manoeuvres flown at the edge of the envelope by highly skilled pilots. The IAF contingent at the Dubai Airshow consisted of the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team flying BAE Systems Hawk Advanced Jet Trainers (AJT) and Tejas fighters. The Tejas light fighter is noted for its exciting airshow displays, with the aircraft displaying precise manoeuvres due to its excellent Fly-By-Wire (FBW) and aerodynamics and proven engine. Unfortunately, on November 21, while performing an airshow display routine, a Tejas light fighter (LA-5026) of the IAF, piloted by Wg Cdr Namansh Syal, went down around 14:15 hours local time in Dubai. Following the accident, the IAF tweeted from its official handle that an IAF Tejas aircraft had met with an accident during an aerial display at the Dubai Air Show, with the pilot sustaining fatal injuries in the accident. A court of inquiry has been constituted to ascertain the cause of the accident. This was only the second recorded crash of the Tejas, with the first occurring in March 2024 near Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, with the pilot ejecting safely. Before the March 2024 crash, the Tejas had an admirable safety record since its first flight in 2001.

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