IAF Pays Tearful Tribute to Wing Commander Naman Syal After Tejas Crash

Chennai, Nov 2025 : The mortal remains of Indian Air Force pilot Wing Commander Naman Syal, who lost his life in the tragic Tejas fighter jet crash during the Dubai International Air Show, were brought to the Sulur Air Force Station in Coimbatore on Sunday. A solemn ceremony was held as IAF personnel, officials, and district authorities paid their final respects.

Coimbatore District Collector Pavan Kumar and Superintendent of Police Karthikeyan laid wreaths on behalf of the district administration during the military tribute. The Air Force accorded full honours to the fallen officer, whose death has deeply shaken the IAF fraternity.

Wing Commander Syal, 37, hailed from Himachal Pradesh and served as a senior pilot at the Sulur base. He had flown the Tejas Mk-1 Light Combat Aircraft from Sulur to Dubai to participate in India’s aerobatic display at the globally recognised aviation showcase, which attracts defence delegations and aerospace giants from across the world.

A seasoned officer with more than 10 years of service, Syal was known for his discipline, professionalism, and exceptional flying skills. Colleagues remembered him as a dependable officer and a devoted family man. He lived at the Sulur Air Force quarters with his wife—also serving in the Air Force—and their seven-year-old daughter. He was also pursuing advanced studies in aviation and defence systems to support his career growth.

The news of his death has left his family and colleagues heartbroken, with tributes pouring in from across the Air Force community. After the ceremony at Sulur, the late officer’s remains were flown to his native village in Himachal Pradesh for the final rites.

Senior IAF officials confirmed that a full-scale investigation has been ordered to determine the cause of the crash, which occurred during a high-profile event where India was set to conduct multiple aerial demonstrations showcasing the indigenously built Tejas fighter.

The untimely demise of Wing Commander Naman Syal has cast a deep pall of grief over the nation, as India mourns a courageous aviator who served the country with honour and dedication from the skies.