“He was a man who radiated professionalism. He shared his experience with younger colleagues who joined this base, the F-16 aviation. He was a good friend. He left his heart in the squadron. He was the face of the F-16, the Air Force (SP) and the Polish Armed Forces (WP),” recalled the late pilot Gen. Norbert Chojnacki during a joint press conference with Minister of Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz.
Maj. Maciej “Slab” Krakowian tragically died on Thursday evening at the Radom airfield during training ahead of the Air Show 2025. The F-16 he was piloting struck the runway while performing a loop. He was one of the best and most experienced Polish fighter pilots. For many years, he had been the leader of the Polish Air Force’s demonstration team – Tiger Demo Team. He leaves behind his wife and two sons.
“Operational activities are underway at the Radom airfield. Two teams are working: the prosecutor’s office and the State Commission for Aircraft Accident Investigation (KBWL). These activities are conducted independently – until a full clarification and submission of the report with conclusions,” said Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz at the 31st Tactical Air Base in Poznań-Krzesiny, where Maj. Krakowian served.
His visit to the base had been scheduled earlier, as he was supposed to welcome Dutch pilots who had arrived in Poznań. Due to the tragedy, the nature of his visit changed, and the Minister of Defense said that he came to the base to “be here today with the commanders, among the soldiers, among the pilots, among the ground personnel, who had the opportunity and the honor to serve together with Major.”
“They had the honor of gaining skills together, improving qualifications, supporting one another, forming friendships, being side by side, defending Poland, serving Poland,” he emphasized.
“He left his heart in the squadron”
At the press conference, Gen. pilot Norbert Chojnacki from the 2nd Tactical Air Wing also addressed the media. He mentioned that the aviation family would do everything possible to support the relatives of the late pilot. “We will do everything to ensure that the memory of our Maciek will always remain and be passed on from generation to generation,” he assured.
“He was a man who radiated professionalism. He shared his experience with younger colleagues who joined this base, the F-16 aviation. He was a good friend. He left his heart in the squadron. He was the face of the F-16, the Air Force (SP) and the Polish Armed Forces (WP),” said the General.
He appealed for respect for the dignity of his grieving family and support for them.