A man suffering from smoke inhalation was airlifted to Vancouver this morning after an apartment fire in James Bay.

Crews were called to a four-floor walk-up at 118 Menzies St. just before 11 p.m. Sunday.

The fire started in a mattress and caused extensive heat and smoke damage to one suite, according to Victoria fire platoon captain Randy Rae.

Damages is estimated at $50,000.

One man was rescued and taken to Royal Jubilee, but later transported to Vancouver.

Twenty firefighters, three engine trucks, a rescue vehicle and a ladder truck responded to the fire.

William Craig, a resident in the building, said Monday he saw firefighters pull out a smoking mattress from the first floor unit where the fire began.

Residents spent about 90 minutes out of the building, Craig added.