A Polish F-16 crash during preparations for the Random Air Show claimed the life of an experienced pilot, officials confirmed Thursday evening. The aircraft from the 31st Tactical Air Base near Poznan nose dived during training and erupted into flames after striking the runway.
Emergency crews immediately rushed to the scene at Radom Airport, but officials confirmed the pilot did not survive the devastating impact. Firefighters battled flames after the F-16 burst apart on the runway at approximately 19:30 local time during evening preparations.
Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz expressed condolences, praising the officer’s dedication and courage, and vowed full support to the pilot’s grieving family. Witnesses capture video showing the jet plummeting nose-first before exploding into fire, shocking crowds anticipating this weekend’s major aviation spectacle.
The pilot was reportedly part of NATO’s elite “Tiger Demo” team, but no ejection attempt occurred before the tragic crash. The Random Air Show, scheduled to begin on August 30, was immediately cancelled following the tragedy, with organizers citing respect and safety concerns.
Authorities have opened an investigation into why the aircraft entered a steep dive and failed to recover during scheduled practice. Poland’s Air Force purchased American-built F-16s in 2003 and has continued upgrading its fleet amid heightened defense spending after Russia’s invasion.
International reactions followed swiftly, with Italy’s defense General Staff and Latvia’s defense minister posting condolences to Poland through social media. The Tiger Demo Team represented Poland’s Air Force at international shows, performing high-skill maneuvers that highlighted the advanced capabilities of the F-16C/D Block 52+.
Officials stated that no civilians were harmed during the incident, though shock quickly spread across Radom, a city accustomed to annual aviation displays. Thousands of visitors had expected aerial performances from international teams, but the cancellation highlighted the risks faced by pilots.
