Fatal Crash at Athens Air Show Involves Hellenic Air Force Jet

A Greek air force F-4 Phantom fighter jet crashed during the Athens Flying Week air show on Saturday, leading to the tragic deaths of two pilots. The incident occurred during a low-altitude manoeuvre, producing large plumes of black smoke.

Thousands of spectators were present at the event, but fortunately, there were no injuries reported among the crowd. The crash ignited a fire at the Tanagra air force base, located 60 kilometers north of Athens, which complicated rescue efforts.

During the rescue operation, the bodies of the pilots were located, but initial efforts were hindered by the fire. A total of eleven water-dropping planes and helicopters supported 85 firefighters in their attempt to control the blaze, which was kept at a distance from the viewing area.

As a result of the crash and subsequent fire, event organizers canceled the remaining activities planned for the weekend and issued an evacuation order for the area surrounding the base.

What we know

• Two pilots died in the crash of a Greek air force F-4 Phantom jet. Confirmed by www.abc.net.au, www.scmp.com
• The crash occurred during a low-altitude manoeuvre at the Athens Flying Week air show. Confirmed by www.abc.net.au, www.scmp.com
• There were no injuries reported among the spectators. Confirmed by www.abc.net.au, www.scmp.com
• The fire caused by the crash prompted an evacuation order near Tanagra air force base. Confirmed by www.abc.net.au, www.scmp.com
• Eleven water-dropping planes and helicopters assisted 85 firefighters in controlling the blaze. Confirmed by www.abc.net.au, www.scmp.com

Sources

• www.abc.net.au — Tragic Crash at Athens Air Show Claims Lives of Two Pilots
• www.scmp.com — Tragic Crash Claims Lives of Two Pilots at Greek Air Show