On February 5th, while navigating ~20 miles/~30 km south of Capo Teulada (Sardinia) en route from Palma de Mallorca to Palermo Sicily, the Costa-operated ship Costa Toscana reported a medical emergency involving a 33-year-old female passenger who had suffered a stroke.
The ship's officers promptly notified the Operations Section of the Cagliari Coast Guard, which immediately dispatched an AW139 Nemo 11-05 helicopter from the Decimomannu Air Section.
Upon arrival, the helicopter crew executed a winch operation to hoist the patient aboard, ensuring her stability before transporting her to Brotzu Hospital in Cagliari. The passenger, a USA national, received timely medical attention following the medevac.
The Coast Guard's official report highlighted the complexity of the operation due to the critical condition of the patient. Recognizing the rapid deterioration of her health, the onboard command contacted the operational section of the Cagliari Coast Guard. Based on recommendations, the decision was made to deploy the AW139 Nemo 11-05 helicopter, which took off immediately, reached the ship, and successfully conducted the rescue operation using a winch to first stabilize and then transport the patient on board.
At the time of the accident, Costa Toscana was on a 7-day Mediterranean voyage roundtrip from Palermo.
For more Costa Toscana incidents and accidents see the ship's CruiseMinus page.