Long line helicopter rescues have been suspended in B.C. indefinitely and search and rescue officials say lives will be lost as a result.
Rescuers rely on the helicopter team to save injured hikers, even in the most remote and difficult areas to reach.
But the long line rescues have been suspended because of a certification issue with the manufacturer.
“This is not a minor issue. It's a provincial issue and lives will be lost,” said Tim Jones, SAR team leader.
In the meantime, helicopter rescues must be handled by the military and Jones fears they won’t be able to handle the volume of requests.
