A British couple, reportedly on their honeymoon, are believed to be among the three people killed when a helicopter crashed and burst into flames on the Greek island of Sifnos on Monday (17 August).
Crash details
The helicopter came down shortly after 6pm local time (4pm UK time), erupting into flames near residential properties in the Tholos neighbourhood. The fire department confirmed that the bodies of all three people on board were recovered once the blaze was extinguished.
Local reports indicate that two of the victims were a British couple visiting the island on their honeymoon, while the third is thought to be an experienced pilot, a married father-of-three with a military background, according to the Mirror.
Witness accounts and response
The helicopter, operated by Bellavia Aviation Services, came down just moments before it was due to touch down at Sifnos heliport. Witnesses reported hearing an unusual noise as the aircraft made its approach, according to Proto Thema.
A photograph taken at the scene in the immediate aftermath showed thick plumes of black smoke rising from a fierce fireball at the site. Emergency services rushed to the scene of the crash.
