Abstract: A rescue basket structure to be suspended from a helicopter winch cable comprises a cruciform-like suspension frame and a collapsible rectangular basket-like container suspended by cables from the frame. The suspension frame has tail fins to stabilize the structure when it is airborne and the cable configuration is designed to impart a scooping action to the container when it is lowered into water to facilitate access thereto by a person being rescued or an object being recovered. The basket-like container may also be partially covered over its base and may trail a sea anchor to enhance the scooping action.