As I indicated above, the beginning of this problem is a common one for scientists working in remote areas, particularly in coastal Alaska. Bad weather often delays the helicopter and an overnight (in the chopper or without it if it cannot return to pick you up) is part of the the program. Since this is expected and you usually can leave the next day, it is not considered a life or death emergency. They were rescued "at the last moment" because no one could have gotten to them earlier. The weather came in on them and only opened up for a few minutes to let them out. They probably could have flown out on their own if the clear weather had been long enough to deice the aircraft themselves but it was only a few minute window. The rescue aircraft had to be on site to get in in the only opening that became available.

If everyone who got caught out for the weather called in for rescue the SAR resources would be strained to the breaking point trying to decide which one was actually going to need rescue and which ones were going to come home on their own.

I would say the choices were excellent.

Respectfully,

Jerry