Greek air force jet crashes at an annual aerial show, killing 2 pilots

A Greek air force jet crashed during a low-altitude maneuver at an air show north of Athens on Saturday, resulting in the deaths of two pilots, officials confirmed. The twin-seat Phantom F4 jet, which crashed, ignited a fire that produced thick plumes of black smoke, causing widespread grief. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed condolences to the families of the deceased pilots, highlighting the inherent dangers faced by Greece's aviators.

Rescue operations, complicated by the initial fire, located the pilots' bodies. Firefighters, supported by eleven water-dropping aircraft and eighty-five ground crews, struggled to contain the blaze, which remained a distance from the spectators. The annual Athens Flying Week, an event attracting thousands, saw organizers halt all scheduled activities for the weekend.

Cyprus Defense Minister Vasilis Palmas conveyed his nation's sympathies to Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, emphasizing the profound sorrow over the loss of two Hellenic Air Force officers. The Greek air force announced three days of mourning following the tragic incident.