Two Dutch climbers who apparently pretended to be exhausted to get a lift in a rescue helicopter face a fine that could reach €2,300, according to local broadcaster ORF.

The man and woman aged 27 and 30 climbed a 1,750-metre peak near Salzburg in June, and wrote in the climbers’ book at the top they were going back down by helicopter. They then called a rescue helicopter saying they were too exhausted to continue.

Local officials say they are taking the matter very seriously because search flights are only to be launched when absolutely necessary and because of the risk to rescue workers.

As well as a fine, the two could also face jail of up to six months for calling in a fake emergency, ORF said.