Two Helicopters Collide During Greek Wildfire Operations, One Pilot Dies

A pilot has died following a mid-air collision involving two helicopters engaged in wildfire suppression efforts in northern Greece. The incident took place near Rodopi, in the Kavala region, on Tuesday afternoon as the aircraft were refilling their water tanks.

Video footage circulated online depicts one helicopter striking the tail rotor of the other, which subsequently erupted into flames. The Greek fire service confirmed that one pilot, identified as a Romanian national, was killed in the crash. The other helicopter involved in the collision was piloted by a Greek national, who sustained minor injuries. Both aircraft were reportedly operating for private companies contracted by the Greek authorities to combat the wildfires.

Wildfires have ravaged large swathes of Greece in recent weeks, placing significant strain on emergency services and air assets. The use of private contractors for aerial firefighting is a common practice in the region, often involving personnel and equipment from various European nations. Investigations into the precise cause of the collision are underway.