Chairlift crisis near Lyon: 240 skiers rescued from Alpine ordeal
A dramatic chairlift failure occurred near Lyon, trapping skiers at a high altitude. The lift stopped suddenly, leaving tourists suspended hundreds of metres above the ground. As reported by "Bild" newspaper, fortunately, help arrived on time.
On Christmas Eve, a dramatic incident occurred in the French Alps. At the Superdévoluy ski resort, a popular centre in the region, the Festoure chairlift experienced a severe technical failure, leaving 240 skiers stranded at a height.
The lift typically transports tourists to the slopes, but it stopped working due to engine power supply issues. The bad news quickly spread throughout the area.
"Due to the power supply failure in the engines, the Festoure chairlift at the Superdévoluy ski resort is not operational". Tourists using the lift at that time found themselves in a difficult situation, remaining at height in the cold and strong wind, waiting for help. Due to the closure of the lift, skiers were immobilized.
Stuck on the lift. Help arrived in time
Fortunately, authorities quickly responded and sent a rescue helicopter to the scene. Although help arrived fairly quickly, moments of uncertainty were felt for several hours.
Mid-afternoon, reassuring news finally came: all trapped skiers were safely rescued, and the situation was controlled. Fortunately, thanks to the quick actions of the rescue services, no one sustained serious injuries.
The Dévoluy ski resort, where the failure occurred, is located at an elevation ranging from 1,500 to 2,500 metres above sea level in a picturesque region between the towns of Gap and Grenoble. Besides the Superdévoluy station, the area also includes La Joue du Loup station, which is popular among tourists looking for skiing challenges and a more relaxed atmosphere.
