A Polish F-16 fighter jet crashed on the airport runway in Radom, killing its highly experienced demonstration pilot during preparations for an AirShow event. Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz is traveling to the site of the incident, marking the first F-16 crash in Poland’s aviation history.
Crash Details: Demo Flight Turns Tragic
A Polish F-16 fighter jet crashed on the airport runway in Radom, engulfed in flames. The aircraft was part of the Demo Team, operated by a show pilot renowned for his expertise and numerous accolades for his flight skills, as reported by TVN24 journalist Artur Moleńda.
Siemoniak: First F-16 Crash in Poland’s History
Tomasz Siemoniak, a Polish government official, confirmed on TVN24 that this is the first F-16 crash in the country’s history. Preliminary reports indicate the pilot was the only person on board and did not survive the incident. The information was verified by the government spokesperson, Adam Szłapka, who stated: “A tragedy occurred in Radom during preparations for AirShow, where an F-16 crashed. The pilot died unfortunately. Defense Minister Kosiniak-Kamysz is speaking with Prime Minister [Donald] Tusk and is en route to the crash site.”
Timing and Context of the Incident
The crash took place on Thursday (August 28) at approximately 7:25 PM during a training flight for the AirShow event. This year’s AirShow was scheduled for the final weekend of the summer holidays, August 30 and 31.
Source: Gazeta, https://wiadomosci.gazeta.pl/polska/7
