A former pilot called the F-16 crash in Radom a “miracle,” emphasizing the high risks of military aviation and the pilot’s final desperate efforts to save the aircraft.
Former Pilot Analyzes Crash Circumstances
Major Reserve Michał Fiszer, speaking on TVN24, stated the crash was not a landing approach but a maneuver during an acrobatic formation. He noted the fighter jet had afterburners engaged, indicating an attempt to exit the maneuver. “This is the first F-16 crash in Poland, and the fact these planes have flown safely until now is a miracle,” he said, adding that the aircraft is a highly capable combat machine capable of engaging ground and air targets, as well as conducting reconnaissance missions. When asked why the pilot did not eject, he explained: “Theoretically, a pilot can eject even from zero altitude, but during high-G maneuvers, ejection is practically impossible. He likely believed he could recover the plane from that situation.”
Former Pilot on the Pilot’s Trying to Save the Aircraft
Major Arkadiusz Szczęsny added that the pilot likely initiated the maneuver to exit the vertical figure too late. “He tried to save the plane by engaging afterburners, but it didn’t work. To my knowledge, the pilot did everything possible until the end. I think the maneuver was performed too low, preventing him from escaping,” he remarked.
Prosecutor’s Office Launches Preliminary Investigations
The District Prosecutor’s Office in Warsaw confirmed that preliminary legal proceedings have begun regarding the crash. Prosecutors from the 8th Military Department of the Warsaw District Prosecution are en route to Radom, where representatives of the Military Police are already on site. Further details will be shared tomorrow during a press conference in Radom.
Source: Gazeta, TVN24
