A Polish F-16 jet crashed during training for AirShow Radom 2025, killing the pilot. Authorities have confirmed the pilot’s death but have not yet disclosed their identity. The incident occurred near the Radom airport on Thursday, August 28.
Pilot’s Identity Not Yet Confirmed
Authorities have confirmed the death of the pilot of the F-16 that crashed during training for AirShow Radom 2025. The pilot’s identity has not yet been disclosed, and the family has not been informed. Officials from the Polish government and the Ministry of Internal Affairs confirmed the news. The crash happened on Thursday, August 28, around 7:25 PM near the Radom airport during pre-weekend demonstration flights.
What We Know So Far
The F-16, presented by the Tiger Demo team in the event program, crashed into the ground during a maneuver over the runway and caught fire. The fire department received a report at 7:27 PM, and rescue services were dispatched immediately. Reports indicate the pilot did not attempt to eject, and some journalists have noted damage to the runway. The cause of the accident remains unknown.
Pilot’s Identity – No Official Confirmation Yet
At the time of this article’s publication, the military and organizers have not revealed the pilot’s personal details. The Tiger Demo F-16 was scheduled to be piloted by Major Maciej “SLAB” Krakowian, according to AirShow materials. However, this does not officially confirm that Krakowian was the pilot at the time of the crash. Authorities are expected to release an official statement shortly.
Status of the Shows – Weekend Event Cancelled
According to Polish Radio, the 2025 edition of AirShow in Radom has been canceled due to the crash. Similar information has been reported by Reuters and AP, as well as several national editorial offices. At the time of publication, no official cancellation notice had been posted on the event’s website.
Airport Infrastructure Status
Reports suggest the F-16 struck the runway, causing damage. The extent of the damage and its impact on airport operations will be assessed by the infrastructure manager.
First Fatal F-16 Crash in the Polish Air Force
Public records indicate this is the first fatal incident involving a Polish F-16 since the aircraft were introduced into service. The F-16C/D Block 52+ “Jastrząb” jets are stationed daily at the 31st Tactical Air Base in Poznań-Krzesiny and the 32nd Tactical Air Base in Łask.
Next Steps
The investigation into the crash and its causes within the Polish military is being conducted by the Commission for Investigating Aircraft Accidents in the Polish Air Force. The commission will determine the sequence of events and issue preventive recommendations but does not assign blame.
Source: MiejskiReporter, https://t.co/n6kxeHR8XN
