An F-16 fighter jet crash-landed at Zakynthos Airport in Greece on Thursday, resulting in an explosion of flames and forcing the closure of the busy tourist hub. The aircraft was on a training flight when it experienced a technical fault, according to the Hellenic Air Force.
The incident occurred around 1:45 p.m. local time, with the jet landing without its landing gear deployed. It slid dozens of meters along the runway before catching fire. The pilot successfully ejected and is reported to be in good health. The cause of the malfunction is currently under investigation.
Firefighters and airport personnel responded quickly to extinguish the blaze. Videos circulating on social media captured the dramatic scene, showing the jet engulfed in flames.
The F-16 belongs to the 335 Squadron of the 116th Combat Wing, based at Araxos Air Base in western Greece. The runway closure led to extensive delays for flights scheduled for the remainder of Thursday, impacting travelers at the start of the summer holiday season. A specialist team is en route to the island to remove the aircraft and allow airport operations to resume.