Horror as two cruise ship passengers airlifted to hospital in critical condition

A cruise ship was plunged into chaos as two passengers suffered near-fatal health emergencies while at sea. The Ruby Princess cruise ship, off the coast of Canada, became the scene of a dramatic rescue operation on Sunday.

The drama unfolded when a 52-year-old woman went into cardiac arrest and was placed on life support, while a 99 year old man experienced a "complete esophageal obstruction". The ship was approximately 50 miles from Vancouver Island, Canada, at the time.

It's believed the ship was en route from Sitka in Alaska to San Francisco, California. Both the US Coast Guard and Royal Canadian Air Force were called to the scene.

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A Cormorant helicopter and Kingfisher rescue plane were dispatched from the RCAF's 19 Wing Comox, while a US Coast Guard Dolphin was sent from Port Angeles in Washington. Officials have stated that the Kingfisher plane was used to co-ordinate the rescue.

The woman was airlifted from the boat and rushed to Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria, British Columbia. Meanwhile, the man was transferred into the care of Life Flight Network at Neah Bay, Washington, reports the Express.

Speaking to CTV News, Captain Dave Moore, commander of the Cormorant, said: "When we arrived at the vessel, everything was very smooth, very professional. The Kingfisher was already on scene, helping the U.S. Coast Guard helicopter.

"They provided top cover and some communications with the vessel, with the other aircraft, and did a good job co-ordinating on scene."

Corporal Felix Serre, one of the brave rescuers who was lowered onto the ship, lauded the onboard medical team, stating that the "medical staff in the cruise ship were incredible".

Lieutenant Keil Kodama, from 19 Wing Comox, said: "This rescue operation exemplifies the exceptional international co-operation and the rapid emergency response capabilities of both nations."

The US Coast Guard said the work of the emergency services meant the patients could "receive the care they needed".

Commander Kelly Higgins said: "This case demonstrates how our specialized expertise and dedicated training allows us to rapidly respond to these types of time-sensitive medical evacuations at sea.

"The expert coordination between the Canadian Coast Guard, the Life Flight Network, the Royal Canadian Air Force and the U.S. Coast Guard ensured this patient received the care they needed."

The Ruby Princess is believed to be heading for its next port of call in Victoria, British Columbia, on August 30. Princess Cruises, the firm that operates the Ruby Princess, has been contacted for a comment.