Watch the Moment an F-16 Fighter Jet Crashes in Air Show Rehearsal Killing the Pilot

A Routine Rehearsal Turns Tragic

An F-16 fighter jet belonging to Poland’s Air Force crashed during a rehearsal for the International Air Show in Radom, killing its pilot. The accident took place on August 28, 2025, while training flights were underway in preparation for the weekend’s event.

Reports from local media said the aircraft went down at around 19:30 CET, striking the runway with full force. The impact left no chance for survival. Emergency crews already on standby for the show responded immediately, but despite their efforts the pilot’s death was confirmed shortly afterward. The crash cast a shadow over what was meant to be a display of aviation skill and preparation for one of the country’s major air events.

Official Response and Immediate Actions

Government spokesperson Adam Szlapka confirmed the fatality in a brief statement posted on X, though he did not release further details about the circumstances.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz soon traveled to the site of the disaster. He had been in discussion with Prime Minister Donald Tusk and Major General Adam Rzeczkowski as the situation developed. Their presence at the scene underscored the seriousness of the event and the loss of one of the Air Force’s aviators.

Rescue Efforts and Investigation

The initial rescue effort was led by the airport fire brigade, who were quickly supported by units under the Ministry of the Interior and Administration. Their role was not only to attempt recovery but also to secure the crash site for investigators.

The cause of the accident has not yet been determined. Aviation authorities have already launched an investigation to establish what happened and to ensure safer practices for future air operations.

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