International Long Range Rescue

A 21 year old cadet has tonight been winched by RAF Search and Rescue (SAR) Sea King Rescue helicopter from a tanker 250 nautical miles off the west coast of Ireland, after being diagnosed with a possible appendicitis and in need of urgent hospital treatment.

 

The Captain of the tanker Eagle Tucson initially sought medical advice from the USA with probable diagnosis of Appendicitis. Medication was prescribed. Subsequently further medical advice was sought via Falmouth Coastguard and following radio diagnosis, the duty doctor requested the cadet was airlifted to hospital as soon as possible.

The tanker was on passage from the USA to Europe and was mid Atlantic when the problem arose.

 

Ian Guy, Watch Manager, Falmouth Maritime and Rescue Coordination Centre, said:

Falmouth Coastguard is routinely involved in long range incidents that involve international cooperation and coordination.

 

The long distance involved with the evacuation necessitates that the Rescue helicopter from Royal Marines Barracks (RMB) Chivenor has top cover, which will be provided by the Maritime and Coastguard Agencys fixed wing maritime surveillance aircraft. This will enable communications to be maintained and safe monitoring of the evacuation.

 

For further details contact:
The Maritime & Coastguard Agency Press Office
023 8032 9401