Two dead after firefighting helicopters collide in Greece

Two firefighting helicopters collided in mid-air while working to extinguish forest fires in Greece on Sunday, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. The accident occurred in the Psatha area, west of the capital Athens, where significant blazes are currently active.

Search and rescue teams were promptly dispatched to locate and assist the helicopter crews. Greek media released a video clip appearing to show one helicopter striking the rotor blades of the other from behind, causing it to fall and catch fire as it descended toward the ground. Each helicopter was carrying two people.

Two of the four individuals involved were found unharmed, according to reports. The fires are being exacerbated by strong winds, which not only accelerate the spread of flames but also increase the risks for helicopter pilots. However, it remains unclear if the winds played a role in the collision itself.

Across Greece, 23 aircraft and helicopters are engaged in combating fires. The most severe situation is near the coastal town of Porto Germeno, northwest of Athens, where fires have been burning since Friday. Approximately 500 firefighters are working to prevent the flames from reaching the outskirts of Athens. Another fire is being fought by about 100 firefighters in Aigialeia, in the northern Peloponnese.

Separately, a 44-year-old man was arrested on Sunday on suspicion of starting a fire on the island of Kefalonia late Saturday. In recent days, three other firefighters have died battling blazes: two on Crete and one on the Peloponnese.

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Search and rescue teams were immediately mobilized to locate and help the crews.