Major breakdown at SuperDévoluy: 240 skiers evacuated from the Festoure chairlift

A large-scale operation for a mechanical failure
This Tuesday, December 24, the Festoure chairlift, located in the SuperDévoluy station (Hautes-Alpes), was immobilized due to an electrical failure affecting its engines. While 240 skiers were stranded on the lift, a major rescue operation was quickly organized.

The Hautes-Alpes prefecture specified that a helicopter, “Choucas 05,” accompanied by four gendarmes from the mountain gendarmerie platoon (PGHM), five firefighters from the mountain rescue group, and the ski lift team, was mobilized for this large-scale evacuation.

“No injuries reported,” says the prefecture
By around 4:30 p.m., Dévoluy Mayor Alexandra Butel announced that the evacuation was nearly complete, with only a few individuals remaining on the first pylons. She also noted that such incidents are rare in the station.

The skiers, all unharmed, were taken care of upon reaching the ground. The municipality deployed its public road surveillance agents (ASVP) and provided a reception hall to warm up the vacationers after this mishap.

Favorable weather conditions
The prefecture also reassured that the weather conditions posed no risks to the skiers during the operation. Two ambulances and teams from the fire and rescue service were also dispatched to the site for logistical support.

While such impressive rescue operations remain exceptional, they highlight the efficiency of on-site teams in ensuring the safety of holidaymakers.