A charter flight carrying an emergency rescue team has taken off for Shigatse in Tibet's Xigaze region following a devastating mudslide in Gyirong County.

Following the disaster, the Ministry of Emergency Management and the National Fire and Rescue Administration deployed the China Rescue Team, which departed from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport on a chartered aircraft. The team is equipped with specialized gear for detection, life-saving operations, debris clearance, communication, and logistical support.

Where the operation begins

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport activated its emergency support protocols without delay, working to establish a seamless air supply route to the affected zone.

A reporter on the scene noted that at 6:02 AM, a plane carrying 111 members of the China Rescue Team slowly moved onto the runway, bound for Dingri Airport in Shigatse. The region is served by two airports—Shigatse Airport and Dingri Airport. To enable the swiftest possible delivery of relief personnel closer to the disaster site, authorities decided after thorough evaluation yesterday afternoon to use a charter flight. The aircraft was scheduled to take off around 6:10 AM and arrive at Dingri Airport before 8:30 AM.

Why just 111 rescue members?

Most of the 111 rescue workers come from the Beijing and Sichuan fire rescue contingents, and a significant number of them have prior experience in search-and-rescue missions during major catastrophes. Upon reaching Shuangliu Airport, a key priority was to fast-track the inspection and transport of their specialized equipment, ensuring full compliance with aviation safety standards while guaranteeing that the team and their gear would arrive together at the destination.

Beyond the extensive array of advanced rescue tools, the flight also carried four kennels containing four highly trained and experienced search-and-rescue dogs.