Pilots killed in Greek fighter jet crash during Athens air show

Two Greek Air Force pilots died after a fighter jet crashed Saturday during the Athens Flying Week international air show at Tanagra Air Base, Greek broadcaster ERT reported. The F-4E Phantom II reportedly suddenly lost altitude while executing a right turn and crashed minutes after the Hellenic Air Force flight demonstration began. ERT said the aircraft broke into two pieces, producing a fireball and extensive fires at two locations. Military sources cited by ERT reported that the pilots were found unconscious some distance from the crash site. Later, Defense Minister Nikos Dendias confirmed the deaths and ordered three days of mourning for the Armed Forces from Saturday through Monday. The incident occurred during the two-day air show featuring teams from across Europe and Asia.