Helicopter Operation in the Tramuntana: 70-Year-Old Woman Rescued from Cala Deià

Swift operation in Cala Deià: Woman rescued by helicopter

Late Friday afternoon a loud rotor noise over the Cala Deià bay drew attention. A 70-year-old hiker had severely injured her ankle during the descent, making it impossible for her to continue the path on her own. Locals and other hikers looked visibly concerned as the rescuers arrived.

How it happened

The woman was in a small group, the hike ran along the old path beneath the rocks. Around 6:30 p.m., companions called the emergency number 112 after it became clear that moving on was impossible. The trail at this point is narrow, with loose scree — not a place for bare heels or new sneakers, as many would say here.

The rescue operation was carried out by the Sóller Mountain Rescue Group. On site, the rescuers stabilized the injured ankle and prepared the patient for airlift. Because the terrain is uneven and a litter carry would have been too risky, the teams decided on the helicopter: two mountain rescuers were lowered by rope, secured the woman in a transfer bag and hoisted her into the helicopter with the onboard crane.

Who has ever been in the Tramuntana knows the sound: The helicopter moved like a giant fish over the bay, seagulls screeched, and a few pedestrians filmed from a safe distance. One of those present later said: 'You don't see something like this every day.'

Further treatment and aftermath

The injured woman was flown to Son Espases Hospital in Palma. According to initial reports the rescuers were cautiously optimistic that it is a serious ankle injury, but not life-threatening. The mountain rescue stressed how important quick reporting and precise location details are — in the rugged gorges, every minute counts.

A brief, practical tip at the end: when venturing into the mountains, wear sturdy shoes, bring enough water, a small first-aid kit, and let someone know when you expect to be back. And: respect for the Tramuntana never hurts. This evening the bay returned to its normal rhythm — but the memory of the sirens and the pounding of the rotor blades will linger for a while.

Emergency numbers: 112 (EU-wide). For reports in rough terrain, provide precise landmarks — Cala Deià, Refugi Trail, or the small rocky cove help the rescue teams.