Israeli technology works to prevent aircraft collisions after deadly firefighting crash in Athens

Two crew members died in a firefighting helicopter collision in Greece on Sunday, underscoring risks in aerial firefighting. Israeli company Ciconia has developed a decentralized collision avoidance system that shares flight paths among aircraft, providing real-time warnings and evasive instructions. The system has been tested by the Israeli Air Force on two Black Hawk helicopters with positive feedback, but large-scale procurement has not been approved. Ciconia is also participating in a US initiative to improve wildfire response, with demonstrations in Texas and a scheduled demonstration next week in California's San Bernardino County.

Two crew members died in a firefighting helicopter collision in Greece on Sunday, west of Athens, during firefighting operations. The second helicopter released its water and landed safely. The incident highlights the growing risks of aerial firefighting, as wildfires increase due to climate change and more aircraft, including drones, operate in smoke and poor visibility. Israeli company Ciconia has developed a decentralized collision avoidance system that shares flight paths among aircraft, providing warnings and evasive instructions without centralized control. The system has been tested by the Israeli Air Force on two Black Hawk helicopters with positive feedback, but large-scale procurement has not been approved, despite the 1997 helicopter disaster that killed 73 soldiers. Ciconia is also participating in a US initiative to improve wildfire response, with demonstrations in Texas and a scheduled demonstration next week in California's San Bernardino County, assisted by Qualcomm, including a pilot program on several helicopters.