Icelandic minister takes part in helicopter rescue drill

Iceland's Minister of Infrastructure, Eyjólfur Ármannsson, experienced a simulated maritime rescue firsthand as part of a drill for Fishermen's Day. The event, held in Reykjavík harbor, saw Ármannsson and Jón Gunnar Jónsson, director of the Icelandic Transport Authority, undergo a "seaman's baptism." Participants jumped from the rescue ship Jóhannes Briem and were subsequently hoisted aboard a Coast Guard helicopter. The exercise was conducted under the guidance of experienced rescue personnel and was deemed a success. The drill is a mandatory part of training for all crew members on Icelandic vessels and was organized to draw attention to its importance. Ármannsson described the experience as valuable and enjoyable, noting that he felt secure during the helicopter hoist. He emphasized the importance of such training for all seafarers. The Minister also highlighted Iceland's leading role in maritime safety, citing a significant reduction in accidents over the past two decades. He pointed out that while even one life lost is too many, Iceland averages only one maritime fatality per year in recent times, a stark contrast to the 59 deaths recorded in 1959. This achievement, he stated, is a source of pride and an example for the world.

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I am not an experienced sailor, I am just an old dock sailor with a license for a 30-ton boat, so this was a very good experience and a lot of fun.