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Double Trouble For Survivors Of Helicopter Crash

Chopper Crashed In Remote Area Near Howe Sound

VANCOUVER, Updated 6:40 p.m. PST January 15, 2001 --Rescuers say it's a miracle two men survived a helicopter crash north of Vancouver Monday.

The helicopter went down in an isolated area in the Howe Sound area just south of Porteau Cove at 9:30 a.m.

The terrain in the area is rugged and steep. The helicopter, owned by Hayes Forest Services of Duncan, crashed into a ravine while working on a logging operation to remove a tree.

"There were, I believe, four or five loggers working on the ground, fallers working in the area and they made their way and provided first aid and stayed with the victims," said Sgt. Gary Brine of Squamish RCMP.

The victims were then taken by ambulance to nearby Porteau Cove. Although their injuries were not life threatening, it was decided they should be airlifted to a Vancouver hospital in order to avoid the 45-minute drive to emergency.

They were transferred onto a Canadian Forces Labrador helicopter. The Labrador was heading for Kitsilano when it developed an engine problem and was forced to make an emergency landing at the Vancouver Airport

It landed safely, and both men were finally taken to the hospital by ambulance after having survived one brush with death, and a second close call in the rescue chopper.

Both men are listed in good condition and they are expected to survive.

It is not yet known what caused the crash. Transport Canada is now investigating.

-- Rachel Gibson (rgibson@hotmail.com), January 15, 2001