A pilot and one other crew member have died following the mid-air collision of two chartered McDermott 214ST firefighting helicopters in Greece on Sunday. “Both crews were undertaking the critical work of supporting firefighting operations to help protect communities,” McDermott said, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. “McDermott Aviation is working closely with the relevant authorities and will continue to assist as they undertake their investigation into the incident.” Video posted to social media showed one helicopter exploding into flames and falling downward as it struck the other helicopter. McDermott Aviation deployed a fleet of 15 heavy-lift helicopters (including 214ST and 214B aircraft) to Greece for the 2026 fire season, marking its seventh consecutive year supporting Greek aerial firefighting operations.