Two firefighting helicopters collide in Greece amid raging wildfires

Tragic scenes unfolded in Greece on Sunday when two helicopters engaged in firefighting efforts collided in the air. The Greek Fire Service confirmed the mid-air collision occurred in the Psatha area, west of Athens, while the aircraft were attempting to extinguish raging wildfires.

A search and rescue operation is currently in progress to locate and assist the crews of both helicopters. Social media has been flooded with video footage capturing the devastating moment of the crash. The fire service stated that both Bell helicopters, each carrying a two-person crew, were leased and had departed from Elefsina military airport.

This incident adds to the severe challenges Greece faces as it battles extensive wildfires. Experts estimate that over 12,000 hectares of forest and agricultural land have been ravaged by fires that have raged for a week. More than 100 homes have been destroyed, with hurricane-force winds exacerbating the situation. A military firing range was also affected, reportedly leading to the detonation of unexploded ordnance.

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During an aerial firefighting operation, two Hellenic Fire Service leased BELL helicopters, each with a two-person crew, crashed in the wider Psathos area of Attica. A search and rescue operation is currently underway.