Greek Air Force plane crashes while fighting wildfire, killing both pilots
A Greek air force water-dropping plane crashed on Tuesday while fighting a wildfire on the island of Evia, killing both pilots.
The CL-215 aircraft was releasing water on the fire when it appeared to have its wingtip entangled in a tree branch. The plane then plunged into a deep crevice on the ground, causing a devastating fireball.
The two pilots, aged 34 and 27, could not survive the crash, as the aircraft lacked an ejection system.
The crash is a tragic reminder of the dangers faced by those working to contain wildfires and protect communities. Greece has been grappling with widespread fires for days, aggravated by the resurgence of heat wave temperatures.
Officials are investigating the cause of the crash. (ILKHA)