Sifnos: The fatal seconds before the helicopter crash – What authorities are investigating
Διαβάζεται σε 3'
New evidence has emerged about the crash of a Bell 206 helicopter on Sifnos, with authorities investigating a possible failure of the tail rotor.
- 19 Αυγούστου 2026 08:08
New details are coming to light about the causes of the tragedy involving a Bell 206 helicopter that crashed on Sifnos, killing the 53-year-old pilot and a newlywed British couple, aged 31 and 30.
Authorities are trying to piece together the circumstances of the tragedy, drawing on eyewitness accounts as well as new security-camera footage capturing the final seconds of the fatal flight.
According to information from ERT, the footage shows the Bell 206 flying normally as it approaches the helipad. Suddenly, however, it rapidly loses altitude and begins spinning uncontrollably around its axis. The helicopter continues to spin for several seconds before crashing to the ground, followed by an explosion that sends thick black smoke into the air.
Watch the new video footage of the helicopter crash
Particular attention is also being paid to the testimony of the helipad manager, who was at the scene waiting for the helicopter to land. According to reports, he described the aircraft’s sudden loss of altitude and uncontrolled spinning and is also said to have referred to a possible problem with the rotor.
Meanwhile, residents of the area, which is close to a residential zone with around 50 homes, have described hearing an unusual noise coming from the helicopter. According to witnesses, the sound of the engine or rotors appeared to change shortly before the crash.
Based on the evidence gathered so far, authorities are examining a possible tail rotor failure as one of the main scenarios. Such a failure could cause the pilot to lose directional control and result in the helicopter spinning uncontrollably.
However, the cause of the crash has yet to be determined. Investigations into the wreckage of the Bell 206, which remains at the scene of the tragedy, are expected to be crucial. Teams from the competent authorities and expert investigators are examining the debris for evidence that could shed light on the final moments of the flight and provide an answer to the key question of what caused the fatal crash.
