By rikififi90 
A devastating tragedy struck the Campania region of southern Italy on Thursday, April 17, when a cable car connecting Castellammare di Stabia to Monte Faito plummeted, resulting in the deaths of four people. The incident, which occurred around 3 p.m. local time, involved the snapping of a traction cable, leaving five occupants—four tourists and one operator—in a dire situation. Monte Faito, renowned for its breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples and Mount Vesuvius, is a popular tourist destination, and the accident stunned both visitors and locals. Adverse weather conditions, including dense fog and strong winds, complicated rescue operations, which involved specialized teams and helicopters. The operator, the sole survivor, was rescued in critical condition and rushed to a hospital.
The cable car, operated by the public transport company EAV (Ente Autonomo Volturno), had resumed operations just one week earlier after a winter hiatus. The reopening, celebrated with enthusiasm by local authorities, saw an influx of tourists drawn to Monte Faito’s natural beauty. However, the tragedy has raised serious questions about the safety of the system, which has been in operation since 1952 and has experienced incidents in the past. Images released by news agencies captured the efforts of rescue teams, who saved 16 passengers stranded in other cable cars, suspended hundreds of meters in the air.
The news of the accident spread rapidly, sparking grief in Castellammare di Stabia and across Italy. The city’s mayor, Luigi Vicinanza, visited the site and reported that the traction cable of the ascending car broke, and the emergency brake failed to function properly. Judicial authorities from the Torre Annunziata Prosecutor’s Office opened an investigation to determine the causes of the incident, and the cable car system was shut down indefinitely.
Context of the Monte Faito accident
Monte Faito, standing at 1,100 meters, is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Campania. Located between Castellammare di Stabia and Vico Equense, the mountain offers panoramic views encompassing the Gulf of Naples, Vesuvius, the islands of Capri and Ischia, and the Amalfi Coast. The cable car, covering a distance of approximately 3 kilometers in just eight minutes, is a primary means of reaching the summit, particularly for tourists seeking trails, viewpoints, and the serenity of its forests.
Opened in 1952, the Monte Faito cable car was designed to meet the region’s growing tourism demand, linking the Circumvesuviana train station in Castellammare di Stabia to the mountain’s peak. While modernized during renovations like the one in 2016, the infrastructure faces challenges related to maintenance and weather conditions, which can disrupt operations on windy or foggy days. In 2024, the system transported over 113,000 passengers, according to EAV data, underscoring its significance to local tourism.
The April 17 tragedy is not the first serious incident in the cable car’s history. In 1960, a car derailed and crashed onto the railway tracks below, killing one person. That event prompted safety improvements, but the recent accident suggests persistent issues. Mayor Luigi Vicinanza noted that the crashed car collided with a pillar during its uncontrolled descent, potentially exacerbating the outcome.
- Timeline of the accident:
- 2:30 p.m.: The cable car begins a new trip with two cars, one ascending and one descending.
- 3:00 p.m.: The traction cable of the ascending car snaps, causing the fall.
- 3:30 p.m.: Rescue teams are dispatched; fog and winds hinder operations.
- 5:00 p.m.: Helicopters locate the crashed car; four deaths are confirmed.
- 7:00 p.m.: All 16 passengers in other cars are safely rescued.
❗️Precipita una cabina della funivia del Monte Faito, nel Napoletano: tre vittime, un ferito grave e un disperso, si apprende da fonti dei soccorritori all’ANSA.
A causa delle pessime condizioni meteo i soccorritori stanno avendo difficoltà a giungere sul posto. pic.twitter.com/qL6ZUXocqR
— Italia 24H Live 🔴 – Notizie dall’Italia (@Italia24HLive) April 17, 2025
Immediate impact on the region
The Monte Faito accident had a profound impact on Castellammare di Stabia, a city reliant on tourism to bolster its economy. Hotels, restaurants, and local guides, anticipating a busy spring season, now face uncertainty. The suspension of cable car operations, which draws thousands of visitors annually, may reduce tourist numbers, particularly in April and May, considered peak months in the region.
Residents expressed shock and sorrow over the tragedy. Many, who view the cable car as a source of local pride, are now questioning its safety. On social media, messages of condolence for the victims and calls for thorough investigations dominated discussions. Umberto De Gregorio, EAV’s president, issued a statement describing the incident as an “unimaginable tragedy” and pledged cooperation with authorities to uncover the facts.
The adverse weather conditions, highlighted by Campania Governor Vincenzo De Luca, played a critical role in the incident’s aftermath. Dense fog reduced visibility for rescue teams, who relied on helicopters and rappelling techniques to reach stranded cars. The operation, lasting about four hours, involved the Italian Alpine and Speleological Rescue Corps, firefighters, and police, who worked under pressure to ensure passenger safety.
Investigation and measures taken
The Torre Annunziata Prosecutor’s Office took charge of the investigation. Experts were sent to the site to examine the wreckage and cable system. A leading theory is a mechanical failure in the traction cable, but authorities are also assessing whether recent maintenance was adequate to ensure safe operations. Mayor Luigi Vicinanza revealed that the system underwent inspections before reopening, though the results of those checks remain undisclosed.
The Castellammare di Stabia station was temporarily closed, impacting the Circumvesuviana railway line between Pioppaino and Sorrento, as the broken cable fell onto the tracks. The scenic road passing through the Reggia di Quisisana, a historic area of the city, was also closed for safety reasons. These measures, while necessary, caused disruptions for residents and tourists reliant on public transport.
The EAV, the company managing the cable car, now faces intense scrutiny. Established to oversee public transport in Campania, the company has previously faced criticism for issues like delays and overcrowding on other lines. The Monte Faito accident raises questions about its ability to maintain critical infrastructure, particularly in a sector as sensitive as tourism.
- Measures announced post-accident:
- Complete suspension of cable car operations pending investigation.
- Technical inspection of all cables and safety systems.
- Psychological and financial support for victims’ families.
- Emergency meetings between EAV and local authorities to review safety protocols.
History of cable car accidents in Italy
Italy, with its mountainous terrain and tradition of tourist cable cars, has faced other serious accidents involving these systems. In May 2021, a cable car crash on the Stresa-Mottarone line in Piedmont killed 14 people, including foreign tourists. The investigation revealed that the emergency brake system had been intentionally disabled to avoid frequent stops, shocking the nation. That case, still vivid in Italians’ minds, intensified demands for stricter regulations.
Another notable incident occurred in 1998 in Cavalese, in the Alps, when a U.S. military aircraft collided with a cable car’s cables, killing 20 people. These events, though differing in cause, reinforce the perception that cable cars, despite their appeal, require rigorous maintenance and oversight. In the case of Monte Faito, prior incidents like the 1960 crash had already raised concerns about the need for modernization.
Comparisons with other accidents highlight the importance of redundant safety systems, such as emergency brakes and backup cables. In the April 17 incident, the emergency brake on the descending car functioned, allowing the safe rescue of 11 passengers. The ascending car, with five occupants, was not as fortunate, suggesting a localized equipment failure.
National and international repercussions
The Monte Faito tragedy garnered significant attention in Italian and international media, with outlets like Reuters and La Repubblica providing real-time updates. Images of the rescues, showing passengers being extracted by ropes from suspended cars, circulated widely, amplifying public emotion. The fact that the victims included tourists, described as two couples, raised concerns about the accident’s impact on the region’s international tourism.
Tourism organizations, such as Gialpi Tour Operator, which promotes Amalfi Coast excursions, issued statements of condolence and emphasized the safety of alternative transport options like buses and trains. The accident’s timing, close to Holy Week—a peak period for Italian tourism—sparked discussions about the sector’s readiness to welcome visitors in high-risk areas.
On social media, hashtags like #MonteFaito and #CastellammareDiStabia trended as users shared updates and tributes. The rapid online response reflects Monte Faito’s significance as a tourist destination and the emotional weight of tragedies in places associated with leisure and natural beauty.
Challenges of tourism in mountainous areas
Monte Faito, like other mountainous regions in Italy, faces unique tourism challenges. The combination of stunning landscapes, limited access, and unpredictable weather demands robust infrastructure and careful planning. The cable car, while efficient, is vulnerable to mechanical failures and external factors like strong winds and fog, which are common in spring and autumn.
Moreover, Castellammare di Stabia’s reliance on tourism makes it particularly sensitive to events like the April 17 accident. Small businesses, such as cafes, restaurants, and guesthouses on the mountain, may face losses due to reduced visitor numbers in the coming months. Efforts to restore public confidence, such as promotional campaigns and safety investments, will be critical to mitigating economic impacts.
The tragedy also reignites debates about sustainable tourism in natural areas. Monte Faito is renowned for its trails and biodiversity, but increased visitor numbers can strain local infrastructure. Authorities are considering measures like limiting cable car passengers or investing in alternatives, such as electric buses, to ease pressure on the current system.
Outlook for the cable car’s future
The reopening of the Monte Faito cable car, now uncertain, hinges on the investigation’s findings and potential system upgrades. Engineering experts suggest that a full overhaul of cables, brakes, and safety sensors will be necessary to prevent future incidents. However, the cost of these improvements could pose challenges for the EAV, which faces budget constraints amid the post-pandemic economic recovery.
In the meantime, Castellammare di Stabia is preparing to address the tragedy’s aftermath. Mayor Luigi Vicinanza announced that the city will honor the victims and provide support to their families. Cultural and tourist events scheduled for the coming weeks, such as the Chestnut Festival, may be postponed or restructured out of respect for those lost.
Monte Faito’s story, defined by its beauty and now this tragedy, will continue to draw attention. The region’s ability to recover will depend on transparency in the investigation, safety investments, and efforts to maintain tourist confidence. For now, the silence at the mountain’s summit reflects the gravity of the moment, but also the resilience of a community determined to move forward.
- Facts about the Monte Faito cable car:
- Opened in 1952, it connects Castellammare di Stabia to the summit in 8 minutes.
- Transported 113,000 passengers in 2024, per EAV data.
- Underwent renovations in 1990 and 2016 but faced closures in 1988 and 2012.
- Serves as a key access point to Monte Faito, famous for trails and viewpoints.
A devastating tragedy struck the Campania region of southern Italy on Thursday, April 17, when a cable car connecting Castellammare di Stabia to Monte Faito plummeted, resulting in the deaths of four people. The incident, which occurred around 3 p.m. local time, involved the snapping of a traction cable, leaving five occupants—four tourists and one operator—in a dire situation. Monte Faito, renowned for its breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples and Mount Vesuvius, is a popular tourist destination, and the accident stunned both visitors and locals. Adverse weather conditions, including dense fog and strong winds, complicated rescue operations, which involved specialized teams and helicopters. The operator, the sole survivor, was rescued in critical condition and rushed to a hospital.
The cable car, operated by the public transport company EAV (Ente Autonomo Volturno), had resumed operations just one week earlier after a winter hiatus. The reopening, celebrated with enthusiasm by local authorities, saw an influx of tourists drawn to Monte Faito’s natural beauty. However, the tragedy has raised serious questions about the safety of the system, which has been in operation since 1952 and has experienced incidents in the past. Images released by news agencies captured the efforts of rescue teams, who saved 16 passengers stranded in other cable cars, suspended hundreds of meters in the air.
The news of the accident spread rapidly, sparking grief in Castellammare di Stabia and across Italy. The city’s mayor, Luigi Vicinanza, visited the site and reported that the traction cable of the ascending car broke, and the emergency brake failed to function properly. Judicial authorities from the Torre Annunziata Prosecutor’s Office opened an investigation to determine the causes of the incident, and the cable car system was shut down indefinitely.
Context of the Monte Faito accident
Monte Faito, standing at 1,100 meters, is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Campania. Located between Castellammare di Stabia and Vico Equense, the mountain offers panoramic views encompassing the Gulf of Naples, Vesuvius, the islands of Capri and Ischia, and the Amalfi Coast. The cable car, covering a distance of approximately 3 kilometers in just eight minutes, is a primary means of reaching the summit, particularly for tourists seeking trails, viewpoints, and the serenity of its forests.
Opened in 1952, the Monte Faito cable car was designed to meet the region’s growing tourism demand, linking the Circumvesuviana train station in Castellammare di Stabia to the mountain’s peak. While modernized during renovations like the one in 2016, the infrastructure faces challenges related to maintenance and weather conditions, which can disrupt operations on windy or foggy days. In 2024, the system transported over 113,000 passengers, according to EAV data, underscoring its significance to local tourism.
The April 17 tragedy is not the first serious incident in the cable car’s history. In 1960, a car derailed and crashed onto the railway tracks below, killing one person. That event prompted safety improvements, but the recent accident suggests persistent issues. Mayor Luigi Vicinanza noted that the crashed car collided with a pillar during its uncontrolled descent, potentially exacerbating the outcome.
- Timeline of the accident:
- 2:30 p.m.: The cable car begins a new trip with two cars, one ascending and one descending.
- 3:00 p.m.: The traction cable of the ascending car snaps, causing the fall.
- 3:30 p.m.: Rescue teams are dispatched; fog and winds hinder operations.
- 5:00 p.m.: Helicopters locate the crashed car; four deaths are confirmed.
- 7:00 p.m.: All 16 passengers in other cars are safely rescued.
❗️Precipita una cabina della funivia del Monte Faito, nel Napoletano: tre vittime, un ferito grave e un disperso, si apprende da fonti dei soccorritori all’ANSA.
A causa delle pessime condizioni meteo i soccorritori stanno avendo difficoltà a giungere sul posto. pic.twitter.com/qL6ZUXocqR
— Italia 24H Live 🔴 – Notizie dall’Italia (@Italia24HLive) April 17, 2025
Immediate impact on the region
The Monte Faito accident had a profound impact on Castellammare di Stabia, a city reliant on tourism to bolster its economy. Hotels, restaurants, and local guides, anticipating a busy spring season, now face uncertainty. The suspension of cable car operations, which draws thousands of visitors annually, may reduce tourist numbers, particularly in April and May, considered peak months in the region.
Residents expressed shock and sorrow over the tragedy. Many, who view the cable car as a source of local pride, are now questioning its safety. On social media, messages of condolence for the victims and calls for thorough investigations dominated discussions. Umberto De Gregorio, EAV’s president, issued a statement describing the incident as an “unimaginable tragedy” and pledged cooperation with authorities to uncover the facts.
The adverse weather conditions, highlighted by Campania Governor Vincenzo De Luca, played a critical role in the incident’s aftermath. Dense fog reduced visibility for rescue teams, who relied on helicopters and rappelling techniques to reach stranded cars. The operation, lasting about four hours, involved the Italian Alpine and Speleological Rescue Corps, firefighters, and police, who worked under pressure to ensure passenger safety.
Investigation and measures taken
The Torre Annunziata Prosecutor’s Office took charge of the investigation. Experts were sent to the site to examine the wreckage and cable system. A leading theory is a mechanical failure in the traction cable, but authorities are also assessing whether recent maintenance was adequate to ensure safe operations. Mayor Luigi Vicinanza revealed that the system underwent inspections before reopening, though the results of those checks remain undisclosed.
The Castellammare di Stabia station was temporarily closed, impacting the Circumvesuviana railway line between Pioppaino and Sorrento, as the broken cable fell onto the tracks. The scenic road passing through the Reggia di Quisisana, a historic area of the city, was also closed for safety reasons. These measures, while necessary, caused disruptions for residents and tourists reliant on public transport.
The EAV, the company managing the cable car, now faces intense scrutiny. Established to oversee public transport in Campania, the company has previously faced criticism for issues like delays and overcrowding on other lines. The Monte Faito accident raises questions about its ability to maintain critical infrastructure, particularly in a sector as sensitive as tourism.
- Measures announced post-accident:
- Complete suspension of cable car operations pending investigation.
- Technical inspection of all cables and safety systems.
- Psychological and financial support for victims’ families.
- Emergency meetings between EAV and local authorities to review safety protocols.
History of cable car accidents in Italy
Italy, with its mountainous terrain and tradition of tourist cable cars, has faced other serious accidents involving these systems. In May 2021, a cable car crash on the Stresa-Mottarone line in Piedmont killed 14 people, including foreign tourists. The investigation revealed that the emergency brake system had been intentionally disabled to avoid frequent stops, shocking the nation. That case, still vivid in Italians’ minds, intensified demands for stricter regulations.
Another notable incident occurred in 1998 in Cavalese, in the Alps, when a U.S. military aircraft collided with a cable car’s cables, killing 20 people. These events, though differing in cause, reinforce the perception that cable cars, despite their appeal, require rigorous maintenance and oversight. In the case of Monte Faito, prior incidents like the 1960 crash had already raised concerns about the need for modernization.
Comparisons with other accidents highlight the importance of redundant safety systems, such as emergency brakes and backup cables. In the April 17 incident, the emergency brake on the descending car functioned, allowing the safe rescue of 11 passengers. The ascending car, with five occupants, was not as fortunate, suggesting a localized equipment failure.
National and international repercussions
The Monte Faito tragedy garnered significant attention in Italian and international media, with outlets like Reuters and La Repubblica providing real-time updates. Images of the rescues, showing passengers being extracted by ropes from suspended cars, circulated widely, amplifying public emotion. The fact that the victims included tourists, described as two couples, raised concerns about the accident’s impact on the region’s international tourism.
Tourism organizations, such as Gialpi Tour Operator, which promotes Amalfi Coast excursions, issued statements of condolence and emphasized the safety of alternative transport options like buses and trains. The accident’s timing, close to Holy Week—a peak period for Italian tourism—sparked discussions about the sector’s readiness to welcome visitors in high-risk areas.
On social media, hashtags like #MonteFaito and #CastellammareDiStabia trended as users shared updates and tributes. The rapid online response reflects Monte Faito’s significance as a tourist destination and the emotional weight of tragedies in places associated with leisure and natural beauty.
Challenges of tourism in mountainous areas
Monte Faito, like other mountainous regions in Italy, faces unique tourism challenges. The combination of stunning landscapes, limited access, and unpredictable weather demands robust infrastructure and careful planning. The cable car, while efficient, is vulnerable to mechanical failures and external factors like strong winds and fog, which are common in spring and autumn.
Moreover, Castellammare di Stabia’s reliance on tourism makes it particularly sensitive to events like the April 17 accident. Small businesses, such as cafes, restaurants, and guesthouses on the mountain, may face losses due to reduced visitor numbers in the coming months. Efforts to restore public confidence, such as promotional campaigns and safety investments, will be critical to mitigating economic impacts.
The tragedy also reignites debates about sustainable tourism in natural areas. Monte Faito is renowned for its trails and biodiversity, but increased visitor numbers can strain local infrastructure. Authorities are considering measures like limiting cable car passengers or investing in alternatives, such as electric buses, to ease pressure on the current system.
Outlook for the cable car’s future
The reopening of the Monte Faito cable car, now uncertain, hinges on the investigation’s findings and potential system upgrades. Engineering experts suggest that a full overhaul of cables, brakes, and safety sensors will be necessary to prevent future incidents. However, the cost of these improvements could pose challenges for the EAV, which faces budget constraints amid the post-pandemic economic recovery.
In the meantime, Castellammare di Stabia is preparing to address the tragedy’s aftermath. Mayor Luigi Vicinanza announced that the city will honor the victims and provide support to their families. Cultural and tourist events scheduled for the coming weeks, such as the Chestnut Festival, may be postponed or restructured out of respect for those lost.
Monte Faito’s story, defined by its beauty and now this tragedy, will continue to draw attention. The region’s ability to recover will depend on transparency in the investigation, safety investments, and efforts to maintain tourist confidence. For now, the silence at the mountain’s summit reflects the gravity of the moment, but also the resilience of a community determined to move forward.
- Facts about the Monte Faito cable car:
- Opened in 1952, it connects Castellammare di Stabia to the summit in 8 minutes.
- Transported 113,000 passengers in 2024, per EAV data.
- Underwent renovations in 1990 and 2016 but faced closures in 1988 and 2012.
- Serves as a key access point to Monte Faito, famous for trails and viewpoints.
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