05.09.2026 17:10
An F-4 Phantom fighter jet crashed during an airshow at Tanagra Air Base in Greece as part of Athens Flight Week 2026. The crash occurred in front of hundreds of spectators, killing the two pilots on board, who held the ranks of major and lieutenant colonel. Following the accident, the event was suspended. The show, which was to feature Greek and foreign military aircraft, had been scheduled to take place on September 5-6.
Moments of horror were experienced during an air show held at Greece's Tanagra Air Base. A two-seat F-4 Phantom fighter jet belonging to the Greek Air Force crashed during the show watched by hundreds of people. A fire broke out in the area after the accident, and thick black smoke covered the sky. The fate of the two pilots on board has not yet been clarified.
LOST ALTITUDE DURING THE SHOW
According to reports in the Greek press, the accident occurred within the scope of the Athens Flying Week held at Tanagra Air Base, north of Athens. It was reported that the two-seat F-4 Phantom was maneuvering at low altitude during its demonstration flight and then lost altitude for a yet undetermined reason and crashed.
Information that the aircraft crashed while trying to regain altitude near the runway also reflected in the Greek press.
FIRE BROKE OUT AFTER THE ACCIDENT
After the fighter jet hit the ground, a fire broke out in the area and thick black smoke rose. The fire was intervened with numerous firefighting teams as well as aerial vehicles and helicopters. AP reported that 85 firefighters and 11 water-carrying aircraft and helicopters were assigned to extinguish the fire.
According to initial determinations, no injuries occurred among the spectators, as the flames remained away from the spectator area.
THE FATE OF THE PILOTS IS UNKNOWN
No official statement has been made yet regarding the condition of the pilots in the two-seat F-4 Phantom. It was reported that in the initial images, there was no clear image of the pilots leaving the aircraft using their ejection seats. Rescue teams continue their work in the area.
ATHENS FLYING WEEK SUSPENDED
Following the accident, the Athens Flying Week event at Tanagra Air Base was suspended. The show, organized with the participation of Greek and foreign military aircraft, was planned to be held on September 5-6.
An investigation has been launched into the cause of the accident, and it was reported that authorities continue their efforts to determine why the aircraft crashed and the condition of the pilots.