Two pilots killed in F-4 Phantom crash during Athens Flying Week

On Saturday, September 5, 2026, at approximately 14:55, a Hellenic Air Force F-4E Phantom II fighter jet crashed during the Athens Flying Week air show at the Tanagra Air Base. The aircraft, which belonged to the 338th Squadron of the 117th Combat Wing, went down during a flight maneuver about three nautical miles southeast of the base, resulting in the deaths of the two crew members: 40-year-old Squadron Leader Ioannis Blesias and 37-year-old Flight Lieutenant Dimitrios Petrou. Neither pilot managed to activate the ejection system before the impact.

In response to the tragedy, the Greek government declared a three-day mourning period for the Armed Forces. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Defense Minister Nikos Dendias expressed their condolences, promising state support for the families of the pilots, both of whom were experienced officers with over 1,500 flight hours. The aircraft was technically cleared for operation, though military sources noted it was performing a transit pass rather than high-complexity acrobatics.

The Hellenic Air Force has established an investigation committee to determine the cause of the crash, focusing on video footage from witnesses and radio communications, as the aircraft was not equipped with a flight data recorder (black box). Investigators are currently examining potential mechanical failure or human error as the crash site continues to be analyzed.