Why did the F-16 ejection process fail? All about the Poland crash
The F-16 crash in Poland’s Radom airshow pilot dies in the incident, video suggesting the ejection was not initiated. Studies show delayed ejection is a main cause for such failures. Read more below.
The Poland F-16 crash: What happened?
A Polish Air Force F-16 fighter jet crashed during practice for the Radom Airshow on 28 August, 2025, pilot died in the crash.
Who was the pilot?
The pilot name was Major Maciej “Slab” Krakowian, who was leader of Poland’s elite F-16 Tiger Demo Team. He was considered one of the most experienced fighter jet pilot in Poland, Major Krakowian served at the 31st Tactical Air Base and was admired for his skills and courage in the air.
Why did the ejection process fail?
Video and eyewitness reports show the pilot did not eject before impact. Or either ejection did’t worked still the exact reason is not clear. According to Polish Air Force investigations, many failed ejections happen when pilots take the decision too late, sometimes because the plane is already too low or out of control for the seat to save them.
How does F-16 ejection work?
The F-16 uses an advanced ACES II ejection seat, designed to work even at low altitude. However, safety experts say that even this seat cannot always save lives if the jet is too close to the ground when ejection is activated.
Polish military aircraft accidents
As of now in Poland no any other such incident is reported in which F-16 fighter jets crased. The Polish military has suffered several tragic crashes over the years. In 2010, the President of Poland and top leaders were killed when a government plane crashed in Russia, killing 96 people.
Safety record and statistics
Poland’s Air Force operates about 475 aircraft and has seen multiple incidents which included older MiG-29 jets and transport planes.
What happens next?
Official investigations are still underway. Authorities are reviewing the incident. As per the report, their is team is dedicated to the same.
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