Two firefighting helicopters collide while battling a blaze in Greece

A serious aviation incident occurred in Greece while a major forest fire was being tackled. Two firefighting helicopters involved in combating the blaze collided in mid-air during an operational sortie.

The incident was caught on video: the footage shows the aircraft dangerously approaching each other while operating over the fire. After the collision, one of the helicopters lost control and crashed to the ground, while the second managed to remain controllable and land.

Rescue services were dispatched to the crash site immediately. Initial information about the condition of the crew of the crashed helicopter was contradictory, and the authorities continue to clarify details about any injuries and the circumstances of the incident.

The collision occurred amid efforts to contain large-scale forest fires that continue to affect various regions of Greece. Due to intense heat, gusty winds and thick smoke, firefighting aviation crews are working in extremely difficult conditions, flying at low altitudes and making repeated water drops.

The cause of the accident will be established during an official investigation. Specialists will examine communication recordings, the crews’ actions and the organisation of air coordination in the firefighting area to determine what led to the collision between the two aircraft.