Greek air force F-4 crashes during Athens airshow, two pilots killed

A Hellenic Air Force F-4 Phantom fighter jet crashed on September 5, 2026, during an airshow at Tanagra Air Base, about 40 miles north of Athens. Both pilots on board were killed.

The two-seat aircraft went down while performing a low-altitude maneuver during Athens Flying Week. Video from spectators showed the jet in a low right turn before it descended behind trees and hit the ground, bursting into flames.

Greek Air Force officials said the bodies of the pilots were recovered. No spectators were injured, despite thousands attending the event.

The crash sparked a large emergency response. About 85 firefighters, 23 vehicles, and 11 firefighting aircraft and helicopters were deployed after flames spread into nearby vegetation. Initial recovery was hampered by the fire.

Organizers cancelled the remainder of the weekend's flying program and spectators were told to leave the air base. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis offered condolences to the pilots' families, and the air force declared three days of mourning.