In addition, I think a valid argument can be made that Charlie "wanted" to die. He had cheated death many times (if you believe Dexter's premonitions) and the more he did so the more he was convinced that had eventually had to die to save Claire and the kid. Therefore, even if Charlie could have found a way out in time, I don't think he wanted to.
now that, i'll take as a valid theory.
aye. watching the series again for the brazillionth time, charlie "took one for the team". desmond explains a few episodes earlier that his hobbit-death is the only thing that will get claire into the helicopter.
...which, of course, hasn't happened.
thanks a lot, desmond!!
