The Russian research vessel Akademik Shokalskiy remains beset in ice with 74 passengers near Antarctica. Despite multiple rescue attempts by the Amver vessels Xue Long and Aurora Australis, neither vessel can safely make their way through the thick ice. According to a release by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority, the Aurora Australis was at risk of becoming beset by ice if it continued to make rescue attempts.Preparations are now being made to airlift the passengers off the Akademik Shokalskiy by helicopter to the Chinese ice breaker and ferry them to the Aurora Australis by barge. According to the latest update, weather conditions were not suitable for an immediate airlift, but passengers were preparing a landing zone.
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Professor Chris Turney, expedition leader, continues to provide updates via Twitter.
Amver vessels play a critical role in rescuing people at sea. This case is another example of the right ship, in the right place, can make the difference between life and death. We applaud the efforts of our international search and rescue partners. You can learn more about the Amver program here.
Photo credit: marinetraffic.com
Video credit: Professor Chris Turney
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