Air Force Conducts High-Seas Medical Evacuation of Ill Passenger Near Canary Islands
A German woman, 60, was airlifted from the cruise ship MEIN SCHIFF 3, located 500 kilometers south of Gran Canaria, in a complex rescue operation coordinated by the Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre of the Canary Islands (ARCC Canarias). The operation was initiated by a request from Maritime Rescue (SASEMAR) due to the passenger's serious medical emergency.
A D.4 VIGMA maritime surveillance aircraft was deployed to assist, monitoring winds and maintaining communication. The SAR helicopter, equipped with a military nurse, lowered the nurse first to secure the patient before hoisting her aboard.
The helicopter then transported the patient directly to Hospital Doctor Negrín in Gran Canaria, where she was met by the Canary Islands Emergency Service (SUC) for treatment. Coordination was maintained throughout the mission with SASEMAR and CECOES 112.
