OV-10 Bronco lands without landing gear at Antidotum Airshow, pilot injured and runway blocked
During morning practice for the Antidotum Airshow, an OV-10 Bronco made an emergency belly landing after its landing gear failed to extend, blocking the main runway and casting uncertainty over the afternoon’s flying programme.
The incident
An OV-10 Bronco aircraft attempted to land during a practice session at Leszno-Strzyżewice airport ahead of the Antidotum Airshow on the morning of 19 June 2026. The plane’s landing gear did not extend, forcing the pilot, a French national, to perform an emergency belly landing. He escaped with minor injuries and received medical attention. No other injuries were reported.
- OV-10 Bronco attempts landing; landing gear fails to extend, emergency belly landing.
- Fire brigade receives call; three units despatched to Leszno airport.
- Organisers announce main runway blocked, operations suspended, programme changes possible.
Emergency response
Firefighters from Leszno were called to the scene at around 11:40 a.m. Three units responded, securing the aircraft and applying foam as a precaution against fuel ignition. The Wielkopolska fire service confirmed there was no crash and no fire.
Preliminary findings indicate the plane’s landing gear was not extended. The aircraft performed an emergency landing but there was no break-up or fire. The pilot left the plane and is under medical care.
Airshow continuity
Organisers immediately suspended operations and blocked the main runway.
The pilot suffered minor injuries; at the moment the main runway is blocked and operations are suspended. We are making every effort to provide you with the most attractive show programme possible. We will keep you updated on any changes through our official communication channels.
They are preparing several schedule variants and expect the flying displays to proceed, likely with delays. The airshow is due to run on 19–20 June.
Investigation
The State Commission for Aircraft Accident Investigation has begun an inquiry. Chair Tomasz Kuchciński confirmed a report will be produced. Police are also on site.
