Veteran Crash Investigator Explains Tejas Jet Tragedy at Dubai Airshow

In the beginning of the conversation, he spoke with deep emotion about the loss of a fellow pilot, calling it a painful reminder of past accidents. He then explained the signature Tejas maneuver being attempted, known as the negative-G turn, a move only Tejas performs. He described how this maneuver can create a “mush,” where the aircraft’s nose appears to rise but continues to sink due to inertia.

Dr. Augustine highlighted a key factor: extreme desert temperature changes. In the morning, dense cool air helps aircraft recover easily. But in the afternoon, hot thin air increases height loss during aerobatic turns. He said this invisible environmental shift likely reduced the safety margin and became the main cause of the crash.

He was clear that the aircraft did not show signs of engine failure and strongly defended Tejas’ safety record, stating that no single-engine fighter in the world matches it. He also explained how low-level aerobatics is one of the riskiest forms of flying, performed only by highly trained senior pilots.

Conclusion (as per Ms. Barkha Dutt):
Ms. Dutt ended the discussion by honouring the bravery of India’s fighter pilots and expressing deep condolences to Wing Commander Syal’s family. She reminded viewers that every military family lives with silent courage and that the nation owes them gratitude.