When flying in the mountains, especially in difficult terrain, the pilot is more than just the pilot in command—they are a First Responder. In the event of an incident, it can take hours for professional rescuers to reach the site; therefore, the passenger's survival during the "Golden Hour" depends entirely on the T2 pilot's knowledge.
Here is an in-depth breakdown of this critical subject:
1. Stabilization of Traumatic Injuries
In paragliding, injuries to the back, pelvis, and limbs are the most common, usually resulting from heavy impact during landing.
Spinal Protection: After any hard fall, the passenger must be treated as having a spinal injury. The pilot must prevent any unnecessary movement and stabilize the neck and back using improvised means (e.g., clothing, a backpack).
Bleeding Control: In the case of open wounds, the priority is to stop arterial bleeding through direct pressure or by using a tourniquet if the injury is on a limb.
Fracture Immobilization: Broken limbs must be immobilized in a way that does not impede blood circulation.
2. Fundamentals of Resuscitation (CPR)
If the passenger is not breathing and has no pulse, the pilot must immediately begin resuscitation efforts.
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: 30 compressions and 2 breaths. In mountain conditions, this is physically exhausting, so the pilot must know how to pace their energy efficiently.
Shock Management: Keeping the passenger warm (using a thermal blanket) and slightly elevating the legs (only if spinal injury is ruled out) to ensure blood flow to vital organs.
3. Evacuation Protocols and Communication
Effective communication is half the battle in an evacuation. The pilot must know exactly whom to contact and how to relay information.
S.O.S. Signal: Transmitting GPS coordinates via radio or phone. The pilot must know the exact name of the location and the terrain's characteristics for the helicopter.
METHANE Protocol: Systemic information transfer: (Major Incident, Exact Location, Type of Incident, Hazards, Access, Number of Casualties, Emergency Services).
Working with Helicopters: Preparing the landing site, securing the wing (so the helicopter's rotor wash doesn't blow it open), and using standard visual signals.
Significance: Why is the Pilot the "First Link"?
The Time Factor: In cases of critical bleeding, a person may only have a few minutes. A correctly applied tourniquet by the pilot is decisive.
Psychological Support: A traumatized passenger is often in panic. A pilot's calm and competent actions reduce the risk of the passenger falling deeper into shock.
Professional Responsibility: A T2 license implies that the pilot holds a first-aid certificate and knows how to act in a crisis situation.
Summary
The best pilot is the one who has never needed this knowledge but is ready to use it at any second. First aid is the bridge between an incident and survival.