Skiers airlifted to safety after chairlift fails in French Alps
A chairlift malfunctioned in Le Dévoluy, France, necessitating the evacuation of 240 skiers by helicopter.
On Tuesday, December 24, the Festoure chairlift experienced electrical problems in the High Alps. According to BFMTV, 240 people were on the lift at the time.
A rescue operation was immediately organized. Rescuers and lift employees arrived on-site to assist the trapped skiers.
- The evacuation is almost complete. Only a few people remain on the lift - reported Alexandra Butel, the mayor of Dévoluy, in a conversation with BFMTV.
Assistance for the evacuated
The authorities assured that there is no danger for the skiers.
The statement indicated, "Weather conditions are favourable and should not change." The evacuation was carried out using a helicopter, with gendarmes, firefighters, and rescue services participating.
- This rarely happens; it's an exceptional situation for us - admitted the mayor of Dévoluy. Local authorities organized aid for the evacuated individuals.
