Tourist Seriously Injured by Jet Blast at Skiathos Airport
An Italian tourist sustained severe head injuries after being struck by jet blast while watching planes take off at Skiathos Airport. The incident highlights the dangers of plane spotting near the runway.
Key takeaways
- A 52-year-old Italian tourist sustained serious head injuries due to jet blast at Skiathos Airport.
- The incident occurred as a plane was taking off, near a popular plane spotting location.
- The powerful airflow from jet engines can cause severe injury and displace belongings.
- Authorities have previously warned about the hazardous nature of standing close to aircraft during takeoff and landing.

What Happened
A 52-year-old Italian tourist suffered serious head injuries on the Greek island of Skiathos when the powerful airflow from a jet engine knocked her to the ground during an aircraft's takeoff. The incident occurred near the airport's runway, a location where tourists commonly gather to observe planes at close range.
Background
The practice of plane spotting near Skiathos Airport, where public roads are in close proximity to the runway, has become a popular attraction for tourists seeking dramatic photographs and videos of aircraft. This activity has previously raised safety concerns due to the significant risks posed by the jet blast phenomenon, which can displace people and objects.
Key Facts
- A 52-year-old Italian tourist was seriously injured by jet blast near Skiathos Airport.
- The tourist sustained severe head injuries after being thrown to the ground by the engine's airflow during a plane's takeoff.
- She was initially treated at a local medical center before being airlifted to Volos General Hospital for further care.
- The incident took place near the runway threshold, a popular spot for plane spotting.
- Authorities have previously issued warnings about the risks associated with standing too close to aircraft engines.
Sources reviewed
Project Chintan independently synthesized and analyzed information cross-checked across the sources listed above.
Related stories

