
The Modern Express, a Panamanian-registered cargo ship, began listing last Tuesday.

The ship's current position is 50 nautical miles (57 miles) from Arcachon, near Bordeaux, on France's Atlantic coast.

All 22 crew members were airlifted to safety by Spanish rescue helicopters.

The cargo does not present an environmental hazard, Vice-Admiral Emmanuel de Oliveira, of the Atlantic Maritime Prefecture, told reporters.

Given prevailing currents, if Monday's rescue fails, the ship is expected to run aground on the Landes coast, in the southwest of France, some time between Monday and Tuesday night.

It is hoped that the righting operation can take place once conditions are calmer. Previous efforts to right it have been unsuccessful.

Several ships are standing by in attempt to right the ship.


