A gondola lift accident at the Engelberg ski resort in the Swiss Alps resulted in the death of a 61-year-old woman on March 18. The incident was confirmed by local police and the Swiss public broadcaster RTS.
The Titlis Xpress gondola, which operates between Trübsee and Stand, detached from its cable and fell onto rugged terrain, sliding down a snow-covered slope. The sole occupant of the cabin, a resident of the area, succumbed to her injuries despite extensive efforts by rescue teams to revive her.
The circumstances leading to the accident remain unclear, prompting the Nidwalden cantonal prosecutor to initiate an investigation. Authorities are currently seeking witnesses to gather more information.
At the time of the incident, strong winds exceeding 80 km/h were reported. According to the operator, the Titlis Xpress lift was effectively closed due to adverse weather conditions. Evacuations were carried out for approximately 100 to 200 skiers who were in other gondola cabins, as the resort temporarily shut down operations.
Norbert Patt, the lift director, stated during a press conference that the tragedy occurred on a day characterized by severe winds. He noted that an alarm is triggered when wind speeds reach 40 km/h, and operations are halted at 60 km/h. The exact wind speed at the time of the accident and whether the alarm was activated remain unknown.
This incident marks a significant event in the history of gondola accidents in Switzerland, recalling the tragic incident on July 12, 1972, in the Upper Valais, where a cable car accident resulted in the deaths of thirteen individuals.
A gondola lift accident at Engelberg ski resort has led to the death of a local woman, prompting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. The resort was closed temporarily as authorities seek witnesses and assess the impact of severe weather conditions at the time.