In an interview with Proto Thema, Grigoris Konstantellos, the Mayor of Vari-Voula-Vouliagmeni and a licensed Boeing 767-300ER pilot, expressed ongoing concerns regarding the appropriateness of the designated takeoff site at Astir Marina. Although the area is legally registered, it does not meet the criteria for a certified heliport.
“It’s licensed and technically within regulations, but it doesn’t adhere to standard aviation protocols,” Konstantellos stated. “The site is on a 12-meter-high plateau, very close to obstacles, and situated in a part of the bay that experiences the strongest winds.”
The mayor’s position has remained steady for years. In 2018, he raised alarms about the limitations of the site, both operationally and spatially. “We advocated for its relocation to its prior location before the marina’s redevelopment, which was much safer. We voiced our concerns, but the operators insisted on using this space since it was available and unused.”
Not a Heliport – Legal Clarifications
According to current Greek and European regulations, helicopter takeoff and landing zones—referred to as ZAP (Zones for Aircraft Operation)—do not require full licensing. They merely need to be declared to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), placing all flight responsibility solely on the pilot.
“This is not a heliport,” Konstantellos stressed. “Under recent European legislation, a hangar is no longer a requirement. However, essential features such as markings, lighting, a windsock, a fire safety system, and the presence of security personnel during operations are mandatory.”
Lack of Windsock Complicates Conditions
While a windsock wasn’t legally required at the site, its absence likely added to the complexity of the takeoff. “Even though there was no obligation, having one could have provided the pilot with clearer insights into wind direction and intensity,” noted Konstantellos.
According to data from the Windy app, at about 14:30—the time of the incident—northeasterly winds were blowing at 7 to 12 knots. Given the terrain and elevation, these factors may have made maneuvering considerably more challenging.
“I suspect the pilot overestimated his capabilities,” Konstantellos remarked. “He took off nose-first, with the wind hitting the tail—potentially a significant error.”
Helicopter Recovered, Passengers Safe
The helicopter was recovered from the sea late on Sunday evening, just hours after crashing. All five individuals on board—the Greek pilot and two American couples heading to Mykonos—emerged unharmed. Emergency services, such as the coast guard, fire brigade, and ambulance teams, reacted promptly.
Moreover, reports indicate that a second group of American tourists was scheduled to depart soon after the incident in a separate helicopter operated by another company. That flight was subsequently canceled following the crash.
Crash Footage Under Investigation
Proto Thema has access to exclusive footage of the crash, which is currently being analyzed by aviation experts to ascertain the cause. Initial evaluations suggest pilot error as a possible factor.
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