EPA Phantom crash in Ionian Sea
On 30 January 2023, Phantom 01507 (4465) of the Elliniki Polemiki Aeroporia (Hellenic Air Force, EPA) crashed in the Ionian Sea off Andravida, 25 miles south of the air base, in northwestern Peloponnese, sadly killing both aviators.
Two Hellenic Air Force AB205s, one Hellenic Navy S-70 and several Coast Guard vessels were taking part in the rescue operation. A C-130 was put on standby.
According to Proto Thema, the two F-4Es were on a low flight part of the training mission below 300 feet when the accident happened.
The second Phantom remained over the crash site while sea and air vehicles were moving towards the area from Andravida.
The F-4E (AUP) belonged to 338 MDV Άρης / Aris (Mars).
Photo (just illustrative): F-4E 71743 as seen by Hans Heemskerk at Leeuwarden, on 19 June 2008