On April 17, 2025, a cable car accident occurred on Monte Faito near Castellammare di Stabia in southern Italy, resulting in the deaths of four individuals and serious injuries to one person.
Incident Overview
The Monte Faito cable car, operated by Ente Autonomo Volturno (EAV), connects Castellammare di Stabia to the summit of Monte Faito. On the afternoon of April 17, a descending cabin experienced a failure when the hauling cable snapped, causing the cabin to fall. Four of the five occupants died at the scene, while the fifth was critically injured and transported to a hospital in Naples. A second cabin, ascending at the time, remained suspended and was safely evacuated by rescue teams.
Victims
The deceased include two British tourists, an Israeli woman, and the Italian cabin operator. The injured individual, whose identity has not been disclosed, remains hospitalized in critical condition.
Response and Investigation
Emergency services, including alpine rescue teams and firefighters, responded promptly to the scene. Adverse weather conditions, such as fog and high winds, complicated rescue efforts. The cable car service had resumed operations on March 25, 2025, following routine winter maintenance. Authorities have initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the cable failure.
Historical Context
This is not the first fatal incident involving the Monte Faito cable car. In 1960, a similar accident occurred, resulting in four deaths. The cable car system has been operational since 1952 and is a popular mode of transportation for tourists visiting the region.
Official Reactions
Italian officials, including the President of the Senate and the Transport Minister, have expressed their condolences to the victims' families. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, currently on a visit to Washington, also conveyed her sympathies. Prosecutors in Torre Annunziata have opened a formal investigation into the incident.