A Greek F-16 fighter jet caught fire after making an emergency landing at Zakynthos International Airport on Thursday, prompting a temporary airport closure and flight diversions during the height of the summer tourist season. The pilot escaped unharmed before the blaze consumed the aircraft.
The F-16C Fighting Falcon, assigned to the Hellenic Air Force's 335th Squadron, had departed Araxos Air Base in the northwestern Peloponnese on a training sortie when the crew encountered a landing gear malfunction. Fuel leaking on the runway ignited after touchdown, and firefighters quickly brought the flames under control.
Incoming flights were diverted to other airports while some services were cancelled or delayed. The Hellenic Air Force has opened an investigation into the incident.