Two crew members of Post Panamax containership MOL Prestige have been airlifted after they sustained injuries in a fire that broke out on the vessel on February 1.
The engine fire has left the boxship adrift 207 nautical miles south-west of Haida Gwaii, British Columbia.
Having received the report, the Canadian Coast Guard dispatched a Cormorant helicopter to the scene to render assistance.
“Search and rescue crews from 442 Squadron have hoisted two crew members from MOL Prestige and are transporting them to medical care aboard a CH-149 Cormorant helicopter,” the Coast Guard said.
CCGS Sir Wilfrid Laurier icebreaker has also been deployed to the scene, but is yet to arrive, according to the latest update from the coast guard.
The extent and cause of the fire are yet to be determined.
According to local media reports, five crew members of a total of 23 onboard were injured in the fire, but two sailors suffered severe injuries.
The 6,350 TEU containership was built in 2006 and is managed by Mitsui O.S.K Lines.
World Maritime News Staff