I haven't heard what method he used to signal.

But from what I've read, northern pilots will investigate *anything* unusual that might be a signal. I suppose it's common courtesy in the bush, where you might be next, with two busted legs and a smashed plane, signalling like mad with a red handkerchief on a stick.

BTW, from the news reports I read, this guy refused medical treatment when they got him to town. Instead he got a ride to the nearest restaurant. And he was in the process of resupplying (I assume with ten times the chow and hopefully a sat phone) with the intent of going back to finish his trip.

If he were incompetent overall, he'd be dead already; that country, in winter, gives no quarter. The fact he's going back means he's no quitter either. I just hope he got the food math right this time.