In the wake of a devastating plane crash during wildfire suppression efforts in Greece, we delve into the inherent risks of aerial firefighting and the current wildfire situation

The Human Cost of Fire Suppression

During the ongoing wildfire suppression efforts in Greece, tragedy struck when a plane crashed near Karystos on Evia, north of Athens.

The incident, filmed by Greek state broadcaster ERT, occurred after the aircraft clipped a tree, causing it to crash in a blaze behind a hill.

Two pilots have been reported missing in the incident, underscoring the inherent dangers faced by those battling wildfires from the air.

As the wildfires continue to ravage parts of Greece, firefighting aircraft are indispensable for tackling these disasters.

However, the recent tragedy highlights the risks these frontline responders face.

The plane was part of a concerted Greek and international effort to extinguish fires around Athens, the island of Rhodes, and Corfu, underlining the truly global scale and significance of these ongoing efforts.

The Wildfire Crisis: Understanding and Mitigating Future Risks

Aerial Firefighting: Heroic Efforts, High Risks

Aerial firefighting is a crucial element in combating wildfires. As the flames engulf large areas and threaten homes, wildlife, and even entire communities, the men and women in the air form a critical line of defence, often in incredibly challenging conditions.

The recent crash in Greece brings into stark relief the perils they face in their heroic efforts to protect lives and properties.

Pilots and crew members involved in aerial firefighting must demonstrate exceptional skill and bravery. T

hey navigate difficult environments marked by intense heat, heavy smoke, and unpredictable winds.

They are required to fly their aircraft dangerously low to ensure accurate water or retardant drops on the fire, often in mountainous or rugged terrains.

This risky flight pattern is precisely what led to the recent tragedy in Greece, where the aircraft clipped a tree during a low-level operation.

Furthermore, pilots must deal with what is known as the ‘fire wind.’ This is a phenomenon where the heat of the wildfire creates its own weather system, resulting in erratic and strong wind patterns that can quickly change direction.

Fire winds can cause sudden shifts in the fire’s path, making it incredibly challenging for pilots to predict where their aerial firefighting efforts will be most effective.

Beyond the physical hazards, the mental toll on these brave individuals is also significant.

The long hours, the high stakes of the mission, the emotional strain of witnessing the destruction caused by wildfires, and the knowledge of the ever-present danger they face contribute to a stressful work environment.

However, despite the risks and pressures, these men and women continue to fly into danger to protect communities and the environment from the devastating effects of wildfires.

The equipment used in aerial firefighting also plays a role in the inherent risks.

Aircraft used for this purpose, such as air tankers and helicopters, often need to carry heavy loads of water or fire retardants.

This added weight, combined with the need to fly at low altitudes and in adverse conditions, places a great deal of stress on the aircraft.

Ensuring the maintenance and safety of these machines is of paramount importance.

It is important to note that the dangers faced by those involved in aerial firefighting extend beyond the immediate risk of accidents.

There is a long-term risk associated with regular exposure to thick smoke and potentially toxic fire retardants.

Studies have shown that exposure to such conditions can lead to respiratory issues and other health problems.

Moreover, the increased intensity and frequency of wildfires, largely due to climate change, has led to a longer fire season.

This expansion means that aerial firefighting crews are spending more time in the field, further amplifying the risks and challenges they face.

In addition to the firefighting crews in the air, ground support teams are integral to the operation’s success and safety.

These teams help guide the pilots, monitor weather conditions, maintain and refuel the aircraft, and manage logistical aspects of the operation. Their role is just as critical and fraught with danger, as they often work in close proximity to the fire lines.

The recent incident in Greece underscores the very real hazards associated with aerial firefighting and serves as a stark reminder of the bravery and dedication of these individuals.

The fight against wildfires is truly a heroic battle against nature’s fury, made more intense by the growing impacts of climate change.

As we face the future, the valiant efforts of these aerial firefighters and the peril they brave will continue to be indispensable.

However, it also underscores the urgent need to better understand, mitigate and adapt to the changing climate that is fuelling these intense wildfires.

Climate Change: A Firestorm Catalyst

Climate change continues to exacerbate wildfire incidents across the globe, with hotter and drier conditions increasing the likelihood of these disasters.

Southern Europe is currently grappling with a scorching heatwave with temperatures above 40°C in some parts, which has intensified wildfire activity.

Climate change has undeniably heightened the challenge of firefighting efforts, adding more pressure on aerial firefighting resources.

The increasing demand for these assets and the hazardous conditions in which they operate further highlight the dangers faced by those in the planes.

The Current Wildfire Situation

The situation in Greece remains dire, with evacuation orders issued for several areas as approximately 80 fires continue to blaze across the country.

The island of Rhodes has seen significant damage, with fires forcing locals and holidaymakers to evacuate, many ending up in temporary accommodations.

Airlines have initiated rescue missions to repatriate people, and Greece claims this as the largest evacuation operation in its history.

The assistance is not limited to within Greece; support has been dispatched from EU member states, Turkey, Israel, and Egypt.

Despite the international support and concerted efforts of over 500 firefighters, the battle against the wildfires remains uphill.

In tandem with the tragedy in Greece, another wildfire broke out in Sicily after temperatures there reached a record 47°C earlier in the week.

These concurrent events highlight the growing urgency of addressing the root causes of these disasters, not least of which is the increasingly potent threat of climate change.

As the world continues to wrestle with these devastating wildfires, the risks associated with aerial firefighting underscore the human cost of these climate change-driven disasters.

While the efforts to combat these blazes continue unabated, the lives lost in these operations highlight the need for improved safety protocols and climate change mitigation strategies.