Watch: Dramatic rescue footage captures airlift of injured hiker from Platteklip Gorge

Dramatic rescue footage released by Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) shows the precise and highly coordinated helicopter evacuation of an injured hiker from Platteklip Gorge on Sunday afternoon.

The short clip captures the moment a Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS / Air Mercy Service helicopter hovers close to the steep mountain slopes as rescue personnel secure a 33-year-old visitor from Britain for extraction.

The woman slipped while descending the popular trail on her first day in Cape Town, sustaining multiple injuries that left her in extreme pain and unable to continue. Passing hikers raised the alarm, triggering a carefully coordinated rescue response.

She was treated on scene by a Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS paramedic before being flown to a nearby landing zone, where she was transferred to an awaiting ambulance and transported to hospital. The operation was concluded shortly after 2pm.

WSAR spokesperson David Nel said the footage highlights the skill and professionalism required during mountain air rescues.

“This short clip highlights the precision, skill and professionalism of the helicopter team,” Nel said. “We are privileged to work alongside such capable aircrews, whose airmanship and teamwork are vital in safely bringing patients off the mountain.”

WSAR extended its best wishes to the injured hiker for a full recovery following what it described as a difficult start to her Cape Town visit.

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Cape Argus