Working Conditions Aboard the Sheng-Cheng-Hai

On March 28, 2026, a critical medevac operation unfolded 370 nautical miles off the El Hierro coast involving the bulk carrier 'Sheng Chen Hai', which was making its way from Yangzhou to Vila do Condo. The ship's distress signal reported that two crew members had sustained injuries, prompting immediate action from maritime rescue services. Air traffic controllers swiftly directed the 'Sheng Chen Hai' to navigate towards El Hierro while they coordinated with the International Radiomedical Center to establish the necessary evacuation protocols. Recognizing the urgency, the Search and Rescue (SAR) helicopter Helimer 201 was deployed, and assistance from the Sasemar 103 aircraft was also secured. Both aircraft were briefed to converge at a designated rendezvous point located 150 nautical miles from El Hierro. Although stable, the injured crew members could not walk and required the use of stretchers for their evacuation. The Sasemar 103 effectively served as a communication link throughout the operation as it departed for the meeting location. The Helimer 201 took off, refueled, and then headed towards the rendezvous point. At precisely 5:28 p.m., the SAR helicopter confirmed that both crew members were safely aboard. The Helimer 201 then made its descent into El Hierro at 6:40 p.m., where ambulances were waiting to transport the evacuated individuals to the hospital for further treatment. By 7:20 p.m., the Sasemar 103 confirmed its return to base, marking the successful conclusion of the mission. This operation was facilitated by the coordination of the CCS of Salvamento Marítimo in Tenerife. Meanwhile, the 'Sheng Chen Hai' resumed its journey, with an estimated time of arrival in Vila do Condo set for April 6.