Investigation Underway After Fatal Gondola Accident in Swiss Resort

Police said the gondola detached from the cable “for reasons that are still unclear”.

The accident happened on Wednesday morning.

Eyewitnesses told Swiss media that strong winds were buffeting the lift when the crash happened.

Video on social media shows the gondola tumbling down Mt Titlis and flipping over several times before coming to a halt.

The victim was a 61-year-old Swiss woman.

The gondola could carry up to 8 people.

The cause of the crash is being investigated.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic accident on March 18th at Titlis,” said a statement from Engelberg on.

“Our thoughts are with those affected, their families and loved ones.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences and wish them strength, comfort and solidarity.”

The cantonal police said the woman was alone in the Titlis Xpress ski gondola when it detached from the cable.

The gondola had just left the Trübsee station and was heading up the middle section of the mountain when the accident happened.

Police said air rescue service, ambulances and police officers were involved in the rescue operation.

One skier said “extremely strong winds” had left the gondolas swaying, and police spoke of gusts of more than 80km/h (50mph).

The gondola service is normally suspended when winds climb above 60km/h.

The cable car service was suspended, and public broadcaster SRF said between 100 and 200 passengers were brought to safety from about 40 other gondolas.

The managers of the ski lifts expressed their shock at the accident and director Norbert Patt said “our thoughts are with the victim’s loved ones”.

PlanetSKI: Number 1 for digital ski news

Your digital platform for ski news, resort information, travel, equipment rental, sport, money saving deals and everything connected with snowsports – web site, social media & more.