Polish F-16 Jet Crashes during Radom Airshow Rehearsal Killing Pilot

A Polish Air Force F-16 fighter jet crashed Thursday evening during a rehearsal for the upcoming AirSHOW Radom 2025 in central Poland, killing the pilot.

Government spokesperson Adam Szłapka first announced the death, while Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz described it as a “great loss for the Air Force and the entire Polish Army.”

The crash occurred around 1730 GMT (11 pm IST) when the F-16, from the 31st Tactical Air Base near Poznan, was performing an aerobatic barrel roll before losing control and striking the runway. Video footage shared by Polish media showed the jet erupting into flames and skidding across the tarmac.

The General Command of the Armed Forces confirmed that no bystanders were injured and said rescue operations began immediately after the crash.

Kosiniak-Kamysz, who arrived at the scene, posted on X (formerly Twitter): “In the F-16 plane crash, a Polish Army pilot died – an officer who always served his country with dedication and great courage. I pay tribute to his memory. To the family and loved ones, I offer my deepest condolences.”

Following the incident, organizers announced the cancellation of AirSHOW Radom 2025, which was scheduled for this weekend.

Local media reported that the crash damaged part of the runway, further complicating event preparations.

No additional details on the cause of the crash have been released.