This is one of several teams of mountaineers currently climbing in the Chugach Mountains near by. Most of these teams will be totally isolated in the extreme wilderness for 4 weeks. The only contact with civilization during this time is when I bring them groceries in my 1962 Super Cub. These climbers are with an organization called NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School). NOLS does an excellent job of training young people to be leaders while experiencing the rewards of the wilderness. These month long trips test the endurance of all those who participate and they are some of our favorite clients. I have done hundreds of flights for NOLS and I am always impressed by the goals they accomplish.
My father-in-law, Mike Meekin (Meekins Air Service) has been flying for them for nearly 30 years and they have always shown a high level of professionalism and care for the environment. This team (NAME 2) is still out there, and I just talked to their course leader 30 minutes ago by satellite phone. They are currently sitting in the clouds at 8000′ in the Chugach Mountains. If the weather allows I will see them again on the 8th of June.