Two Greek Pilots Killed as F-4 Phantom Crashes During Athens Air Show

A Greek Air Force F-4 Phantom fighter jet crashed during the Athens Flying Week air show on Saturday, killing both pilots on board.

The crash occurred at Tanagra Air Base, about 60 kilometers north of Athens, as the aircraft performed a low-altitude maneuver in front of thousands of spectators.

The aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff and burst into flames. A large cloud of black smoke rose over the area.

Two Pilots Killed in Crash

Greek Air Force officials confirmed that the two pilots died in the accident.

Emergency teams initially faced difficulties reaching the crash site because of the fire. Authorities later recovered the pilots’ bodies.

The Greek Armed Forces have declared a period of mourning following the deaths. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Firefighting Operation Launched

The crash triggered a major firefighting and emergency response operation.

Around 85 firefighters and 11 firefighting aircraft and helicopters took part in efforts to control the blaze, according to the Associated Press.

The fire spread from the crash site toward nearby woodland. Authorities also issued evacuation and safety instructions for people in surrounding areas.

No Spectators Injured

Thousands of people were watching the Athens Flying Week event when the fighter jet crashed.

Despite the dramatic accident, no spectators were reported injured. The remaining air show activities were subsequently canceled.

The incident occurred during one of the final public appearances of Greece’s F-4 Phantom aircraft. The Athens Flying Week organizers had listed the legendary aircraft among the event’s featured Greek Air Force displays.

Investigation Underway

Greek authorities have launched an investigation to determine what caused the F-4 Phantom to lose altitude and crash.

The aircraft was carrying out a low-altitude display when the accident occurred. Officials have not yet announced a definitive cause.

The crash has cast a shadow over the annual Athens Flying Week, one of Greece’s major aviation events.