US pilot Taylor “FEMA” Hiester has shared deeply emotional reflections on the moments after the fatal crash of an Indian Air Force (IAF) Tejas fighter jet at the Dubai Airshow, describing why his team decided to withdraw from the event “out of respect” for the fallen pilot.
Wing Commander Namansh Syal of the IAF was killed during an aerobatic display on the last day of the airshow. Hiester, who was present with his demonstration team, said they were preparing their aircraft when the crash occurred.
Honors and refinements
In an Instagram post, Hiester clarified that his team was not involved in the tragedy and had already begun their journey back to the United States.
“I am grateful to everyone who inquired about the team after the tragic accident… We did not participate and are currently on our way home to the United States.
Expressing his condolences to the IAF community, Hiester said the loss weighed heavily on everyone present at the airshow.
“Out of respect, we have canceled our performance”
Despite the organizers’ decision to continue with the airshow program, Hiester said his team decided to withdraw its final performance.
“Although the show made the shocking decision to go ahead with the flight schedule, our team, along with several others, decided to cancel our final performance out of respect for the pilot, his colleagues and his family.”
He added that his team watched the aftermath unfold from afar — a moment that left a lasting impact.
To witness the consequences
Hiester described the scene after the crash in harrowing detail.
“We all watched silently as the aftermath unfolded… thinking of the Indian maintenance crew standing on the ramp next to the empty parking space, the aircraft ladder lying on the ground and the pilot’s belongings still in his rental car.”
He said the immediacy and finality of the tragedy forced the team to confront the fragility of their profession.
Hiester said he was stunned to learn the airshow would continue despite the fatal accident.
“I was walking through the venue expecting to find it empty or down. It wasn’t. The announcer was still excited…the crowd was still excited to watch other shows.”
The contrast between the tragedy and the optimistic atmosphere unsettled him.
“It was uncomfortable for me for a number of reasons… imagining my own team leaving the venue without me, rock and roll playing over the speakers while another act was performing.
Read also | Wing Commander Afshan breaks down at the funeral of the husband killed in the Tejas crash
A personal lesson on life and legacy
Hiester said the incident served as a moment of deep personal clarity and reminded him of the true value of those around him.
“Despite any ‘rockstar treatment’, fancy dinners and sponsor lodges, my team, who have become my family, is all I’ve ever had.”
He reflected on the reality that life—and even flying days—move on quickly after a tragedy.
“Once the black smoke clears… the company you work for and the people you worked to please will still be standing there listening to rock and roll and filming the next act.”
He concluded by urging others to stick close to the people who matter most.
“The people you invest in and love will be the only way you survive your own end… ‘The show must go on’ is what they always say. And they’re right. But remember, someone will say that after you’re gone.”
Read also | Caught on camera: Last maneuver of HAL Tejas jet at Dubai Air Show before crash
