Tragedy in Tanagra during “Athens Flying Week”: F-4 Phantom crashes, killing two pilots

The Greek Air Force has been struck by tragedy after an F-4 Phantom fighter jet crashed in Tanagra this afternoon, while the “Athens Flying Week” air show was taking place.

The accident claimed the lives of the two pilots on board.

Both officers served in the 117th Fighter Wing in Andravida. Initial reports indicate that the crew failed to activate the aircraft’s ejection systems before the crash.

The two-seat aircraft crashed at around 3:00 p.m. while taking part in the air event organized in Tanagra.

A fire broke out in the area after the aircraft went down. Two ambulances and two EKAB emergency service motorcycles were dispatched to the scene.

News of the accident prompted Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias to cut short his engagement at the Thessaloniki International Fair and travel to Athens.

Greek authorities have launched an investigation to determine the causes of the crash.

So far, it has not been confirmed whether the crew ejection system was activated before the crash.

Experts and the teams responsible are working at the scene to secure evidence and fully clarify the circumstances of the accident.