Flights at Zakynthos International Airport were disrupted after a Greek Air Force F-16 fighter jet caught fire following an emergency landing, forcing the temporary closure of the airport’s only runway.

According to the Hellenic Air Force, the incident occurred on 9 July when the aircraft developed a technical problem during a training mission.

Pilot Escapes Unharmed

The pilot diverted the aircraft to Zakynthos Airport, where it landed on the runway at approximately 1:45 p.m. local time before catching fire.

The pilot successfully evacuated the aircraft without injury, and airport firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze.

Airport Operations Suspended

Debris from the damaged F-16 blocked the runway, forcing airport authorities to suspend all flight operations.

Several commercial flights were unable to land or depart, while others were diverted to alternative airports. Holidaymakers experienced lengthy delays before the runway was cleared and normal operations resumed.

Investigation Underway

According to the BBC, the aircraft belonged to the Greek Air Force’s 335 Squadron, based at Araxos Air Base in western Greece.

The cause of the emergency has not yet been confirmed. Greek newspaper Kathimerini reported that investigators are examining the possibility of a landing gear malfunction. Air Force specialists have travelled to Zakynthos to inspect the damaged aircraft.

Another Setback for Tourists

The airport disruption is the latest challenge for visitors to Zakynthos this summer.

The island’s world-famous Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, remains closed for the entire tourist season due to the ongoing risk of rockfalls from the surrounding cliffs. Authorities have deemed the area unsafe for visitors until further notice.