Skiers airlifted to safety in dramatic helicopter rescue

Two cross-country skiers were airlifted to safety after spending 10 hours stranded on a 3000-ft ridge in the Scottish Highlands.

The pair got into difficulty on Bidean Nam Bain in Glencoe, and were forced to call police to come to their aide.

However, 16 members of the local mountain rescue team were unable to reach them due to blizzard conditions – despite struggling for ten hours.

After spending the night exposed to the elements, the pair were spotted by an HM Coastguard Search and Rescue helicopter from Inverness.

Rescuers were able to winch them to safety at around 8.30am on Saturday morning – ending a 14-hour ordeal.

A statement from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency said: ‘At first light on Saturday morning (20th Jan), the HM Coastguard search and rescue helicopter based at Inverness carried out a dramatic rescue of two stranded ski tourers. 

‘The pair had spent the night without shelter at 3000ft after bad weather hampered rescue attempts.

‘They were found in a precarious position, next to a steep drop, before being winched onto the helicopter.

‘Both casualties were taken to Torlundy, Fort William before being passed into the care of the Scottish Ambulance Service.

The pair got into difficulty while skiing on Bidean Nam Bain in Glencoe, Scottish Highlands

After spending the night exposed to the elements, the pair were spotted by an HM Coastguard Search and Rescue helicopter from Inverness

‘We would advise people to ‘think safety first’ and don’t put yourself in any unnecessary danger if venturing into the Mountains. You should tell a friend or family member of where you are going and when you plan to return.

‘Remember to be prepared, UK mountains should not be underestimated as they can be unforgiven for even the most experienced people. 

‘Severe weather condition could mean a change in your environment within minutes and navigation could be difficult.’