Two firefighting helicopters collided during aerial operations over a large wildfire in Greece, killing both crew members on board. The aircraft were participating in an emergency response to contain rapidly spreading flames fueled by extreme heat, strong winds, and dry vegetation. Authorities immediately suspended aerial operations in the area while launching an investigation into the collision.
The accident comes as Greece battles one of Europe's most severe wildfire emergencies. Thousands of firefighters, supported by aircraft and international assistance, have been deployed to protect communities threatened by fast-moving fires. Several regions remain under evacuation orders as emergency services continue efforts to bring the blazes under control.
Government officials expressed condolences to the families of the victims and praised the firefighters risking their lives to combat the fires. Aviation investigators have begun examining flight data, weather conditions, and operational procedures to determine what caused the mid-air collision.
The helicopter crash has intensified concern over the dangers faced by emergency responders during increasingly destructive wildfire seasons. With more heatwaves forecast across southern Europe, authorities remain on high alert as firefighting operations continue in several countries.
