Two Firefighting Helicopters Collide Over Psatha Wildfire, Killing Two Crew Members

According to the Fire Service, the aircraft were operating over the wildfire in the Psatha area of western Attica when the collision occurred.

Video circulating online appears to show the rotor of one helicopter striking the other during a water-drop maneuver. The damaged aircraft crashed moments later, while the second helicopter, despite sustaining damage, was able to leave the area safely.

Rescue Operation Ends in Tragedy

Emergency crews quickly reached the crash site after locating the downed helicopter.

Authorities confirmed that two members of the crew lost their lives, while the remaining two were rescued and received medical assistance. An official investigation has been launched to determine the exact circumstances that led to the collision.

Wildfires Continue to Test Greece

The accident came as hundreds of firefighters, supported by aircraft and helicopters, continued battling major wildfires across western Attica under extremely difficult conditions.

Strong winds, high temperatures and prolonged drought have fueled several large blazes in recent days, forcing evacuations and placing enormous pressure on emergency services. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis described the situation as one of the most difficult periods of the current fire season.

Investigation Underway

The Hellenic Air Accident Investigation Authority and the Fire Service are expected to examine flight data, operational procedures and weather conditions to establish what caused the mid-air collision.

The tragedy has once again highlighted the extreme risks faced by aerial firefighting crews operating in rapidly changing wildfire conditions.

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