(2nd of 2) In this case, the members of the recovery team that assisted with this rescue moved the patient to an area where the Blackhawk could make a safe landing. It was also an area where it was safe for them to be while the Blackhawk landed. Each rescue whether it be on the side of a mountain or in the middle of a large flat field, takes on its own unique set of conditions that are always evaluated prior to and during the rescue.

(1st of 2) The Blackhawk landed near the area of Devil's Kitchen where it is somewhat level. The preferred method of conducting a rescue is to land the aircraft (if able) and load the patient directly into the helicopter. If the helicopter is unable to land due to the surface condition in the area where they are to land, then you must use the hoist that is installed on the right side of the aircraft and bring the patient in the aircraft in that manner. The reason for the crash of the Air Force Pavehawk a few years back has not changed with how these rescues are conducted today. The weather plays a large part in the decision making process whether you land or use the hoist but there are many other conditions that must be considered when making the final decision to land, hoist, or even conduct the mission in the first place.