A Polish Air Force pilot was killed on Thursday when his F-16 fighter jet crashed during a rehearsal for an upcoming airshow in Radom, central Poland.
Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz confirmed the tragedy, describing the pilot as an officer who served his country with “dedication and great courage.” He visited the crash site and paid tribute to the fallen airman, saying his memory would be honored.
The aircraft was from the 31st Tactical Air Base near Poznań. Military officials said no one on the ground was injured and rescue teams rushed to the scene immediately after the crash.
Video shared by Polish media appeared to show the jet attempting a barrel roll before losing control and erupting into flames on the runway. The impact left the airstrip badly damaged.
Organizers have since canceled the Radom Airshow, which had been scheduled for this weekend.
