An Air National Guard Blackhawk helicopter rescued three hikers who were stuck in a Sedona snowstorm on Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2021. The Pilot, U.S. Army Capt. Shannon Lancaster and his crew took the hikers, two men, and a lady, to emergency responders who were waiting for them at a command post. Then, the technicians moved them to the Verde Valley Medical Center for the checkups they required.
This rescue mission began on Jan. 24 when the hikers called the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office. They said that after about eight hours of hiking, they were stuck about 60.96 meters down a snow-covered cliff, and needed help. To make their situation trickier, they were running out of supplies, and their phones’ battery lives were low. This made it extremely difficult for them to face the harsh weather conditions on Bear Mountain.
Volunteers from several counties, including Maricopa, Gila, and Yavapai, joined hands with the Arizona Air National Guard Blackhawk helicopters and DPS Ranger to save the hikers whose home is on the East Coast. They hiked for two days without any success. This wasn’t a shock because the terrain was rough and the weather unfriendly. These first responders showed immeasurable kindness and care since they were risking their lives by being out there. Fortunately, the U-H 60 Blackhawk crew found the hikers in good time and moved them to safety.
Yavapai County’s Sherriff, David Rhodes, thanked everyone who sacrificed their time and made an effort to rescue the hiking enthusiasts. He kept in touch with the hikers’ families to inform them about the rescue mission’s progress and give them hope. The sheriff further said that it is out of luck that the three individuals were found alive. He also reminded hikers to be cautious when going for excursions because trails in Arizona are hazardous, regardless of whether it’s during summer or winter.
About Fair Lifts
Fair Lifts is the No. 1 provider of search & rescue helicopter services in the nation. We also offer any other executive and commercial helicopter services that you might need. Examples include pipeline inspection, executive helicopter charters, helicopter airport transfer, aerial photography and videography, avalanche control, mining operations, aerial surveying, natural disaster relief, and government assistance.
At Fair Lifts, we excel in offering exceptional aviation services. It’s why our clients prefer us to our competitors.
Photo Credit: redrocknews.com