A ski lift malfunction at Astún resort injured 10 passengers, with two in critical condition. Emergency teams acted swiftly, deploying helicopters and ambulances to rescue 30 stranded individuals. The accident has prompted an investigation into the lift’s technical failure and renewed calls for stricter safety measures.
Immediate Response and Rescue Operations
On Saturday afternoon, a ski lift failure at the Astún resort sent passengers plummeting into the snow. Emergency services initially reported that 35 people were injured, but they later confirmed the involvement of 30 individuals. Rescue teams transported ten injured passengers to the hospital. Among them, two sustained critical injuries, while two others required urgent medical attention. Six people experienced minor injuries and received treatment on-site. The remaining 20 individuals were examined and cleared at the scene.
Miguel Ángel Clavero, the emergency services chief for Aragón, explained the cause of the incident. He stated that a malfunction in the ski lift’s return system caused a tension breakdown, leading to the collapse. Rescue teams, including Guardia Civil officers, firefighters, and resort staff, immediately began helping stranded passengers descend from the broken lift.
Witnesses Describe the Terrifying Scene
Eyewitnesses provided harrowing accounts of the accident. María Moreno, a passenger on the lift, described the moment the collapse occurred: “We suddenly heard a loud noise, and then we fell straight to the ground. The chair bounced several times, and while we were shaken and injured, others were thrown from their seats.”
Moreno expressed concern for those who appeared more severely hurt, adding, “The collapsing chair struck some people directly.” Another witness reported that the chairs began to shake violently as a cable appeared to snap, throwing passengers through the air.
Coordinated Emergency Efforts
Rescue operations unfolded rapidly. Authorities deployed five helicopters, 14 ambulances, and a mobile medical center to the site. Meanwhile, resort officials closed the ski station and evacuated visitors to ensure a clear path for emergency vehicles. Clavero requested that everyone leave the area to allow rescue teams to work unhindered.
Jorge Azcón, Aragón’s regional president, visited the scene to oversee rescue efforts. Spain’s prime minister, Pedro Sánchez, expressed his condolences and pledged government support through a message on social media. “We are deeply concerned about the accident at Astún and extend our thoughts to the injured and their families,” he wrote.
Investigation and Next Steps
Authorities are investigating the technical failure that caused the ski lift collapse. Experts aim to determine the precise cause and ensure better safety measures at ski resorts. In the meantime, the injured continue to receive medical attention, while rescue teams finalize operations at the site.
This accident has raised concerns about the maintenance of ski lifts, prompting calls for stricter safety checks at similar facilities.