Helicopter landing on Sarakiniko Beach in Greece sparks backlash: Prosecutor launches investigation

The landing of a private helicopter on the white rocks of Sarakiniko Beach on the island of Milos in Greece has sparked controversy. Images circulating on social media showed the helicopter landing on the rocky terrain, with passengers exiting the vehicle and walking toward the sea.

Known for its white volcanic structure that resembles the lunar surface, Sarakiniko is one of the island's most visited tourist spots. Following the spread of the footage, many users expressed outrage that an area noted for its natural texture was being used as a helicopter landing pad.

Tour guide Manos Kyritsis, who captured the incident, stated in comments to the Greek press that he was shocked by what he witnessed. Kyritsis argued that while there are rules regarding the protection of such areas, there are shortcomings in implementation and oversight.

PROSECUTOR INTERVENES

Following the growing backlash, the Syros prosecutor's office launched an investigation into the incident. According to reports in the Greek press, the prosecutor has requested that local police gather information on the individuals connected to the helicopter landing.

The investigation will assess whether air transport regulations or other legal provisions were violated. The Greek press also emphasized that the incident should be examined not only in terms of landing permits but also regarding whether it posed a security risk in a crowded tourist area.

It is noted that while Greek legislation allows helicopters to land outside of approved helipads under certain conditions, this does not mean pilots can land at any point they choose. According to a report by ProtoThema, although the helicopter had permission to land at the island's official helipad, the pilot chose to land at Sarakiniko instead.

The legal status of Sarakiniko has also become a key topic of the debate. Despite its natural beauty and heavy visitor traffic, the area is not part of the Natura 2000 protection network, nor is it on the UNESCO World Heritage List. This is being interpreted as creating a legal loophole regarding the protection of the area.

The helicopter incident has reignited the "overtourism" debate that has long been on the agenda in Greece, particularly around the Cyclades. According to data from the Bank of Greece, the country hosted approximately 38 million tourists in 2025 and generated 22 billion euros in revenue from tourism.

The landing at Sarakiniko has brought questions about the balance between tourism revenue and the protection of natural areas back to the forefront.