Training halted at Killybegs GAA pitch to allow R118 helicopter to land

Training came to an abrupt halt at Killybegs GAA pitch as the area was cleared to assist in an emergency.

On Tuesday evening, a patient needed to be transferred from an ambulance to the R118 helicopter in order to evoediate their transfer to hospital.

A spokesperson for Killybegs Coard outlined the operation, thanking those at the GAA pitch for their cooperation.

“Killybegs Coast Guard were tasked this evening at 5.43pm by Malin Head Coast Guard to secure a landing zone at Killybegs GAA Pitch for Rescue 118 inbound.

“The team arrived shortly before the aircraft and we cleared the landing zone of all equipment and members of the public and checked for hazards.

“We then transferred the casualty from the National Ambulance Service (NAS) under directions from the winchman to the aircraft while it was still running, as time was of the essence for the seriously ill patient.

“Once the casualty was on board we maintained a visual on the landing zone until the aircraft had departed straight to hospital.

“We sincerely would like to thank Killybegs GAA for the use of their field and many thanks to all the GAA members and staff that stopped their training session and helped us clear the pitch in a  timely manner.”