Major Maciej “Slab” Krakowian, one of Poland’s finest pilots and the celebrated leader of the elite F-16 Tiger Demo Team Poland, has tragically passed away. A true master of the skies, Major Krakowian inspired awe and admiration with his precision, daring, and artistry in flight.
Just weeks ago, he was honored with the prestigious *“As the Crow Flies Trophy”* at the Royal International Air Tattoo in the United Kingdom—an award bestowed by audiences who were moved by his unmatched skill and passion. At the largest air shows across Europe, he represented Poland with pride, captivating spectators and embodying the spirit of aviation excellence.
Tragically, during training for the upcoming Air Show Radom 2025, Major Krakowian’s F-16 crashed to the ground. He was unable to eject and died instantly, his life cut short in service to the profession he loved so deeply.
Major Krakowian leaves behind not only the memory of his extraordinary talent but also a legacy of dedication, courage, and inspiration to both his colleagues in uniform and the countless people who watched him take to the skies.
He will be remembered as a brilliant aviator, a respected leader, and a man whose passion for flight was as boundless as the heavens he so gracefully commanded.
