Focus Taiwan
Date: 2016/01/23
By: Huang Kuo-fang and Elaine Hou
Taipei, Jan. 23 (CNA) Four crew members on a China-registered freighter 
were airlifted to safety by Taiwanese rescuers Saturday, after their ship became stranded during an attempt to dock at a harbor in southern Taiwan to take shelter from strong winds.
Due to the bad weather, the Chinese ship applied late Friday for approval to dock at Budai Harbor in Chiayi County.
However, the ship was stranded as the crew tried to enter the harbor under the guidance of Taiwanese coast guard officials Saturday morning.
Budai coast guard said they tried to tow the ship, but failed. Because of the high waves, rescuers were also unable to approach and board the ship to save the people aboard.
The coast guard, therefore, sought assistance from the National Airborne Service Corps, which sent a helicopter to airlift the four crew members, all Chinese nationals, from the ship. [FULL STORY]
