Helicopter Crew Describes Dramatic Lindsey Vonn Extraction

A helicopter crew involved in the rescue of U.S. ski champion Lindsey Vonn detailed the complex operation conducted during the Olympic downhill race. The pilot and winch technician described the mission as technically demanding, highlighting precise coordination and helicopter positioning for a safe extraction.

Vonn, 41, was airlifted from the Olimpia delle Tofane piste after suffering a broken leg and other injuries in a crash. The crew received coded information and were not aware of her specific medical condition during the extraction.

Clear and sunny conditions on Sunday contrasted with previous difficult weather, creating optimal circumstances for the rescue. Following initial treatment at a hospital in Cortina, Vonn was transported by helicopter to another hospital in Treviso.

This operation was carried out by Avincis, Europe's largest provider of emergency air services, who are managing rescue operations for the Winter Olympics. Another skier, Cande Moreno, also crashed later on the same day, requiring a second air ambulance call.