Two helicopters engaged in firefighting operations in Greece collided mid-air, resulting in the deaths of two crew members, authorities confirmed.
The incident occurred approximately 65 kilometres west of Athens, near the Attica-Boeotia border, amid ongoing efforts to contain a large wildfire in the region.
Casualties and Survivors
- A Danish pilot and a Greek fire service liaison officer died after their helicopter crashed into a ravine.
- A British pilot and another Greek liaison officer aboard the second helicopter survived the collision.
Details of the Collision
A video circulating from the scene shows one Bell helicopter striking the propellers of the other, causing one aircraft to burst into flames before both fell into a ravine.
The Greek Fire Service reported that the helicopters were leased Bell models actively involved in combating the wildfire near Psatha.
Context of the Wildfires
Greece has experienced multiple wildfires this week, prompting large-scale evacuations. Over 500 firefighters have been battling fires across areas including Porto Germeno, Psatha, Fokida, Megara, and Kefalonia for more than 72 hours.
Similar wildfire outbreaks have also affected other parts of Europe, such as France and Spain, following prolonged heatwaves and dry conditions exacerbated by climate change.
Contributing Factors
Authorities note that while human activity remains the primary cause of wildfires, climate patterns—such as a mild, wet winter followed by intense heat—have increased vegetation growth and created ample fuel for fires.
