Greeks Bid Final Farewell to Pilots Killed in Tanagra Crash

Funerals are held today for Hellenic Air Force pilots Ioannis Blesias and Dimitris Petrou, who lost their lives in a jet crash in Tanagra during Athens Flying Week. The services were delayed until the identification process for the two pilots was completed.

The funeral of squadron leader Ioannis Blesias takes place at the Metropolitan Church of Agios Nikolaos in Pyrgos. Hundreds of citizens, relatives, and state representatives gathered to bid him farewell as his flag-draped coffin was later moved to the First Cemetery of Pyrgos.

“For forever our child will be missing. It is done, our life has stopped. Nor will we ever recover.”

Meanwhile, the funeral of captain Dimitris Petrou is scheduled for the afternoon in Katsikas, Ioannina. Petrou leaves behind a six-month-old daughter, while Blesias leaves behind a five-year-old son.

The Hellenic Parliament announced financial support for the children of both pilots until they reach the age of 25, provided they are studying. The support will provide an annual amount of 10,000 euros after final approval by the Court of Audit.

Investigations into the causes of the F-4 Phantom fighter jet crash remain ongoing. Relatives shared memories of the pilots, noting their lifelong dedication to aviation and the armed forces.