Malta: Italian helicopter recovers an injured person

12/11/14

Yesterday, an HH212 helicopter from the Italian Defense Field Cooperation Mission (MICCD) was alerted to the recovery of a seafarer, seriously injured on board the British flag "CMA CGM Maupassant" container ship, sailing at over 40 miles east of the Maltese coasts.

The helicopter, with 5 crew members on board, took off at 16.00 in the direction of the ship. On reaching the intervention area, a reconnaissance was carried out and, in consideration of the particularly critical weather conditions, with strong winds and rough seas, the ship was asked to maneuver in such a way as to allow an easier approach for the delicate release operations. and recovery with the winch.

The first rescuer released, having assessed the condition of the injured person, indicated the use of a harness as the fastest and safest method for evacuation. Once the recovery procedures were completed, the helicopter quickly made its way to Malta, landing at the "St Luke" hospital in Gwardamangia, where at 17.10 the injured person was entrusted to the medical care.

The SAR section of the MICCD works with personnel of the Italian Air Force and with mixed Italian-Maltese crews collaborating with the Maltese Government in the Research and Rescue Service. The service is guaranteed with H24 readiness on HH212 helicopters.

 

Source: SAR Section - MICCD - Malta - ten.col. Rosario Muraglia