British Tourist Has Been Killed In Freak Helicopter Tail Accident While On Family Holiday In Greece

A British tourist was tragically killed by a freak helicopter accident while returning from a family holiday in Greece.

The 21-year-old was travelling back from Mykonos with one of his siblings when he headed to the back of the hired vehicle, not realising the propeller was still spinning.

Local reports state that the pilot of the Bell 407 copter and two ground technicians have been taken into police custody as authorities investigate the circumstances of the death.

It's believed that when the man, who hasn't been named, walked towards the tail of the chopper, the blade caused 'horrific head injuries' and killed him instantly.

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The parents were in a similar helicopter and had been on the way to the same spot in Spata, a town near Athens. However, the pilot diverted the vehicle to Athens International Airport to spare them from having to see their son's remains.

A source told The Sun: “The pilot saw what had happened and decided to spare the parents the sight of their son - it was horrendous.

“He flew on to another helipad at Athens where the couple were consoled as it was confirmed that the young man was dead.

“The cause is being investigated but it remains unclear why this happened - or was allowed to happen when rotor blades pose such an obvious danger.”

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A police source added: “We are talking about a tragedy - an unprecedented tragedy - a tragedy that should never have happened.”

Giorgos Kalliakmanis, head of the police union for south eastern Athens, said the ongoing investigation will look at whether proper safety procedures were followed.

Authorities will seek to find out whether the passengers were allowed to depart from the chopper when the rotor blades were still running.

If found to be culpable, Kalliakmanis told the Greek news outlet Mega Channel that the pilot could face manslaughter charges.

"We want to see if the pilot informed the passengers to get off the helicopter," he explained.

“These propellers run for about two minutes from the time he turns the engine off unless he presses a button which stops them at 50 seconds. 

“The helicopter door has no security, anyone who wants to open the door and get out. 

“The preliminary investigation will look at whether the pilot informed them to get out when the propeller and engines stopped.”

If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677