USCG release – PORT ANGELES, Wash. – A Coast Guard aircrew medically evacuated an ill man late Monday night, Oct. 7 off the cruise ship Norwegian Joy, which was operating 20 miles off the coast of Cape Flattery. An MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew from Sector Field Office/Air Station Port Angeles hoisted a 71-year-old man reportedly suffering heart complications and transported him to Station Neah Bay where he was transferred to a Lifeflight Network aircrew. The man was then flown to Providence Hospital in Everett for further care. The initial call for assistance was received by Coast Guard 13th District Command Center watchstanders at 6:55 p.m. The watchstanders directed the launch of the Port Angeles aircrew at 7:40 p.m. after conferring with the duty flight surgeon. In the meantime the Norwegian Joy turned back toward Cape Flattery to reduce distance from emergency responders. The Coast Guard aircrew conducted the hoist at 9:25 p.m. leaving the Coast Guard aviation survival technician on board the cruise ship and taking the ship’s doctor and patient to shore, The Lifeflight Network received the patient at 10:16 p.m. and transported the patient to Providence Hospital. The Coast Guard then retrieved the AST off the cruise ship. The condition of the patient is unknown at this time.
