Coastguard Helicopter Pulls Sick Crewman Off Container Ship in Dramatic Solent Rescue
A dramatic rescue unfolded this afternoon in the Solent as the Lee on the Solent Coastguard rescue helicopter swooped in to airlift a crew member from a massive container ship.
Winchman Lowered to Stricken Cargo Vessel
The Korea-registered Glovis Comet, a 55,680-ton, 32-metre container ship, radioed for urgent medical help just after 1pm. The UK Coastguard Operation Centre at Fareham scrambled Rescue Helicopter 104 immediately.
A skilled winchman was lowered onto the deck to reach the ailing man and prepare him for evacuation. The rescue helicopter then airlifted the crewman, flying him urgently to Queen Alexandra Hospital in portsmouth/" title="Portsmouth" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Portsmouth for treatment.
Official Confirms: Quick Action Saves Sick Crew Member
A Maritime and Coastguard Agency spokeswoman said, “The ship radioed for assistance using Marina 1 at about 1.15pm this afternoon. A crew member on board had taken ill. We sent coastguard rescue helicopter 104, who deployed a winchman paramedic to the man. Our intention was to winch him off the vessel to hospital for treatment, which was successfully carried out.”
Swift Helicopter Rescue Highlights Coastguard Efficiency
This high-stakes rescue shows how the UK Coastguard’s rapid response can save lives at sea, especially for those stranded miles offshore on merchant ships.
