Deadly F-16 crash shocks visitors during airshow rehearsal in Poland

An F-16 fighter jet crashed during a training exercise on Thursday at the international airshow in Poland, killing the Polish Army’s pilot. 

Polish Defense Minister Władysław Koscieniec-Kamiż wrote on X after arriving at the crash site that a Polish Air Force pilot had lost his life in the tragic accident. He paid tribute to the officer, praising his dedication and courage in service to the country.

The General Command of the Polish Armed Forces stated that the aircraft was from the 31st Tactical Air Base near Poznań. Authorities added that no bystanders were injured.

Emergency and rescue operations were immediately launched at the crash site.

Local media and videos circulating online showed the jet descending rapidly before hitting the ground, sending thick black smoke into the sky.

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Eyewitnesses at the site expressed shock and grief over the incident.

The crash also damaged the runway, forcing organisers to cancel the Radom Air Show scheduled for August 30–31.

🚨⚡️ Another angle documents the moment an F-16 fighter jet crashes into the runway, a massive fireball.

The aircraft failed to gain altitude in time and turned into complete wreckage upon impact.

The pilot was killed instantly.pic.twitter.com/PIbvAgJBY1

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