US pilot Taylor “FEMA” Hiester has shared a deeply emotional reflection on the moments following the fatal crash of an Indian Air Force (IAF) Tejas fighter jet at the Dubai Airshow, describing why his team chose to withdraw from the event “out of respect” for the fallen pilot.

Wing Commander Namansh Syal of the IAF was killed during an aerobatic demonstration on the final day of the airshow. Hiester, who was present with his demonstration team, said they were preparing their aircraft when the crash occurred.

“I’m grateful to everyone that has reached out asking about the team following the tragic accident… We were not involved and we’re currently on our way home to the United States.”

Hiester expressed condolences to the IAF community and said the loss weighed heavily on everyone presen

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