A new, clearer video of the Tejas fighter jet crash at the Dubai Air Show has raised fresh questions about the final moments before impact. The footage appears to show that the pilot attempted to eject just seconds before the aircraft hit the ground.
The video shows the jet performing a low-altitude aerobatic maneuver when it suddenly loses control. As the aircraft drops sharply, a small white object — believed to be the initial stage of the ejection system — is seen emerging from the jet. Experts say this suggests the pilot may have triggered the ejection seat, but the aircraft was already too close to the ground for a safe escape.
The Tejas exploded upon impact, killing the pilot, Wing Commander Namansh Syal, a decorated Indian Air Force officer. He was 37 years old and was participating in the air show as part of India’s demonstration team.
A Court of Inquiry has been ordered to determine the exact cause of the crash. Early assessments indicate that the combination of low altitude, high-G maneuvering, and loss of control left the pilot with almost no reaction time.
The Indian Air Force has not yet confirmed whether the pilot attempted to eject, but the new video is likely to play a key role in the investigation. Authorities are examining the flight path, maneuver sequence, and ejection system data to understand why the aircraft went down and whether any technical factors were involved.
The crash has sparked discussions about air-show safety and altitude margins during aerobatic displays. Further details are expected once the official investigation report is released.
