Fighter Jet Crashes During Air Show, Killing Two Pilots as Thousands Watch

A Greek Air Force fighter jet crashed during the Athens Flying Week air show on Saturday, killing both pilots in front of thousands of spectators, officials said. The two-seat F-4 Phantom went down at Tanagra Air Force Base, where officials confirmed the deaths and said no spectators or civilians were injured. Reports say the aircraft was performing a low-level maneuver just above the runway area when it slammed into the ground. Authorities deployed 85 firefighters, supported by 11 water-dropping aircraft and helicopters, to contain the resulting fires, as thick black smoke rose into the sky. Organizers canceled the rest of the events and evacuated the area. Greece declared three days of mourning, and Cyprus’ defense minister called his Greek counterpart after the accident.