I think I gave the impression that we should not be using a fixed line. In fact, I think the adaptability of the helicopter is one of its best attributes. Flying tours around mountains, someone is hurt, helicopter is the only way in and you have the only helicopter. If you can long line and that's the only option for the patient then I say go for it.
If you regularly do rescues with a fixed line then you should definitely rethink buying a hoist.
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407 driver, maybe mention to Parks Canada what kind of lawsuit could result if someone was injured on a longline when they (Parks) could have paid more for the service to allow you to buy a hoist. Who knows, might work.
I might be stopping in Golden when the labs leave Comox this summer. Will you be around?