Wing Commander Afshan is the wife of Wing Commander Namansh Syal, an Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot who tragically died on November 21, 2025, when his Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA Mk-1) crashed during the Dubai Air Show. Both Afshan and Namansh were serving officers in the IAF.

Wing Commander Afshan paid a tearful tribute to her husband as his mortal remains were brought to their ancestral village of Patialkar in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh for the last rites. She saluted his body in a moving farewell. The couple also has a six-year-old daughter named Aarya.

The late Wing Commander Namansh Syal was 34 years old and was remembered as a dedicated fighter pilot, an outstanding athlete, and a thorough professional known for his unwavering commitment and exceptional skill. He was commissioned into the IAF in December 2009 and had earned immense respect throughout his career. His loss has been deeply mourned by his family, fellow officers, and the residents of his village.

The Tejas aircraft, manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), crashed during a routine aerobatic display at the Dubai Air Show. The IAF has ordered a Court of Inquiry (CoI) to investigate the cause of the accident and is coordinating with Dubai aviation authorities. This was the second crash involving the Tejas fighter aircraft; the first occurred near Jaisalmer in March 2024.

The news of Wing Commander Syal's death has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from various quarters. Senior officials, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, have expressed their condolences. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu also conveyed his sorrow over the loss. The IAF has affirmed its support for the bereaved family during this difficult time.