Rescuing Plane Crash Survivors: A Tale of Coordination and Good Fortune
A Coincidence that Saved Lives
When a plane crashed into Mount Equinox in Manchester, Vermont, the Department of Environmental Conservation (D.E.C.) rangers were already preparing for a hoist training exercise with New York State Police (N.Y.S.P.) helicopter pilots at the Albany International Airport. The training was scheduled to begin at 10:00 A.M., but Ranger John Gullen and Forest Ranger Michael Thompson decided to arrive an hour early to get a head start on their equipment checks.
A Quick Transition to a Real-Life Rescue
As they arrived at the airport, the call for help came in, and the training exercise quickly transformed into a real-life rescue mission. Gullen and Thompson were in the right place at the right time, and the N.Y.S.P. helicopter crews were already prepared for a hoist mission. "We walked in right at the perfect time," said Gullen. "Kevin and myself had already preflighted the aircraft and got it all situated for a hoist mission," added Sergeant John Anderton, a N.Y.S.P. pilot.
A Well-Coordination Effort
The New York aviation crew was not familiar with the Manchester, V.T. area, but they managed to download maps and get familiar with the location quickly. Anderton emphasized that Vermont does not have aviation capabilities, making it essential for neighboring states to assist in emergency situations. "We try to be good neighbors and just like to emphasize what everyone said, it was a really fantastic effort by everyone involved," Anderton said.
A Miraculous Outcome
The rescuers were surprised to find the three survivors with only minor injuries, sitting on the fuselage when they arrived. "Walking up and seeing that fuselage down on the ground, it was really hard to believe that those subjects got themselves out, walked out, and were sitting up upright with apparent minor injuries," said Gullen. Ranger Thompson added, "I’ve been on some rescues where you don’t expect the people to be in such good shape. So, it was a really good feeling to see them upright and finding out that they got out of that plane by themselves."
A Smooth Operation
The rescue crew explained to the survivors that entering another aircraft would be a safer option, but they were hesitant. "I think they were a little uncomfortable having to get back into an aircraft after the experience they just had," said Gullen. After reassurance from the crew, the survivors were briefed on what to expect and what not to do during the rescue. "They took it really well, they were even making some jokes. They were in good spirits," said Gullen.
Conclusion
The successful rescue was a testament to the coordination and good fortune that came together on that day. The New York aviation crew, along with the Vermont agencies, worked together seamlessly to retrieve the survivors, who were miraculously unharmed. It highlights the importance of neighboring states assisting in emergency situations and the value of good communication between agencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the cause of the plane crash?
The article does not specify the cause of the plane crash. - How many people were on the plane?
The article does not mention the number of people on the plane. - What were the conditions like during the rescue?
The article mentions that the weather was a factor, with a significant cloud level covering the top of Mount Equinox, and the warmth contributed to the successful rescue.
