Helicopter crashes moments after takeoff in Greece, all on board killed

A private helicopter crashed into the sea just seconds after takeoff off the Greek island of Sifnos, killing all three people on board. The crash occurred late on Monday, August 17.

Greece's fire service confirmed the deaths. According to local media Kathimerini, the Bell model helicopter had taken off from a helipad on Sifnos, with its intended route to fly over the island. However, moments after takeoff, it lost control and crashed into the sea.

The cause of the crash has not yet been confirmed. It is being investigated whether mechanical failure, pilot error or other factors were responsible.

Kathimerini reported that the pilot had been hired only two months earlier, though no link between his hiring timeline and the crash has been established.

Greek authorities have launched an investigation into the exact cause of the crash.

Source: Reuters