Greek Pilots Killed in F-4 Phantom Crash at Air Show

The accident occurred during the Athens Flying Week 2026 event, with the aircraft going down shortly before it was due to land for reasons not yet determined. The jet was attempting to regain altitude near the runway when it crashed, according to images shared on social media. A major and a lieutenant colonel aboard the aircraft died in the crash.

A fire broke out in the area following the crash, and numerous firefighting and medical teams were dispatched to the scene. Hundreds of spectators who had been watching the show were evacuated from the site, and the Athens Flying Week event was temporarily suspended. Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias cut short his program at the Thessaloniki International Fair and returned to Athens due to the accident, Greek media reported. The crash occurred while hundreds of people were closely watching the demonstration.