Helicopter Rescue at Very High Altitude: Recommendations of the International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MedCom) 2025

Abstract

McLaughlin, Kyle, Charley Shimanski, Ken Zafren, Ian Jackson, Gerold Biner, Maurizio Folini, Andreas Hermansky, Eric Ridington, Peter Hicks, Giacomo Strapazzon, Marika Falla, Alastair Hopper, Dave Weber, Ryan Jackson, and Hermann Brugger. Helicopter rescue at very high altitude: Recommendations of the International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MedCom) 2025. High Alt Med Biol. 00:00-00, 2025. Background: Helicopter mountain rescue is highly effective. However, air rescue operations at very high altitude (VHA), above 3500 m, are inherently hazardous because of challenging topography, dynamic weather, and hypobaric hypoxic environment. Currently, no established international guidelines exist for helicopter rescues at VHA. Methods: We conducted a narrative review of existing literature, supplemented by expert opinions from helicopter pilots, physicians, and rescuers actively engaged in VHA rescues. These recommendations were approved by the International Commission of Alpine Rescue (ICAR) Medical Commission and endorsed by the ICAR Air Rescue Commission. Discussion: We identified 19 key factors to consider, including operational parameters, ground site management, pilot and rescuer safety protocols, and psychological factors to assist air rescue programs in developing pre-mission, mission, and post-mission plans for helicopter rescue missions at VHA. Conclusions: By implementing the recommendations outlined in this article, helicopter rescue teams operating at VHA can improve response capabilities and minimize risks.

Keywords: air rescue; extreme altitude; helicopter; helicopter rescue; high-altitude accidents; high-altitude medicine; human external cargo; mountain rescue; rapid ascent; supplemental oxygen; very high altitude.