24 hours after the helicopter crash in the sea area of Vouliagmeni, video evidence that has come to light sheds light on the circumstances of the accident, while experts point to a combination of factors that contributed to the loss of control.
According to the footage, the helicopter loses altitude almost immediately after takeoff from Astir Marina and ends up in the sea within seconds. Close-up shots show it was affected by strong wind gusts, with the pilot unable to stabilize it and gain the required altitude.
Vouliagmeni: What experts say about the helicopter crash
Aviation experts, speaking to Mega, reject the possibility of an isolated error and emphasize that this was a convergence of adverse parameters. Specifically:
- The takeoff was from an elevated platform, without the so-called ground effect, which helps with lift.
- High temperatures combined with near-maximum weight of the helicopter significantly increased the difficulty of takeoff.
- Wind gusts appear to have destabilized the helicopter immediately after takeoff.
Even a small handling error under these conditions could have caused the loss of control.
What the 57-year-old pilot testified
The 57-year-old pilot, who was arrested after the incident, gave testimony to authorities, claiming that the cause of the crash was strong winds and a possible mechanical problem.
“The most important thing is that all passengers are in good health. I helped them get out safely,” he stated.
According to the Coast Guard report, the pilot underwent an alcohol test with negative results. He is charged with:
Dangerous interference with fixed-route vehicles, bodily harm through negligence, and violation of duties in an emergency situation.
Timeline of the accident
The accident occurred on Sunday afternoon, June 15, 2025. The helicopter had departed from Aspropyrgos at 12:30 and landed at Astir Marina Vouliagmeni to pick up four American tourists. The goal was a short tour over Patroklos islet and Sounio, with the final destination being Mykonos.
Shortly after takeoff, the helicopter crashed into the sea. The pilot realized the impending crash in time and called on passengers to abandon the aircraft and jump into the water. The passengers –two American couples– swam to shore along with the pilot.
There were no injuries from the incident. Only one pregnant woman is hospitalized as a precaution.
