Days like these

The task specialists study the day’s schedule together with the dispatch staff and the pilots. The technicians prepare the helicopters for the new day. Paramedics report on the events of the night, and things are already on the go.

The avalanche control crew is getting ready to take off – there was a lot of snow during the night, and some blasting is needed. A loud bang, followed by another one, and the helicopter is back at base.

The first guests start to arrive, all fascinated by the helicopters and clearly excited about their flight. Many of them are overwhelmed by the challenge of dealing with skis, poles, phone, helmet, gloves, goggles, rucksack, etc., but the task specialists are experts in keeping a level head. They’re perfectly prepared, accompany the guests to the helicopter, take photos, load the ski equipment, offer one or two anecdotes, take another photo, close the helicopter doors, give a wave and see the passengers on their way. Whether a sightseeing trip around the Matterhorn or a flight straight up to the slopes, the pilots know the area like the back of their hand and explain the impressive mountain landscape to their passengers. One of them asks where the Matterhorn is – “Just wait!” answers the pilot. And suddenly there it is, in all its glory.

At the same time, the dispatchers take an emergency call from the neighboring ski resort. Two skiers have collided with each other, one of them suffering a serious head injury. The rescue helicopter is mobilized in no time, and the rescue crew (pilot, doctor and paramedic) get ready for take-off. Then comes a second call, this time about a little girl who is injured. And another one just a moment later – a freerider has fallen into a crevasse. Every minute counts.

At the other end of the valley, a tree is leaning over a playground, at risk of falling over in strong winds. So the crew sets off on another mission to remove the tree. The forester, flight assistant and pilot work hand in hand to make sure nothing goes wrong. Precision is called for here, and half an hour later the playground is back in use. The tree is returned to the cycle, and Air Zermatt gets back to base.

A group of 30 guests is due to visit the base, and drinks and snacks are being prepared. The visitors enjoy a guided tour as the staff go about their work. Fascinating stories are told, questions are answered, various areas of the base are shown and machines are explained.

By now evening has fallen and a long day has come to an end. The sun is hidden behind the Matterhorn, awaiting its next appearance. People congregate in the kitchen, talk about the events of the day and about how you have to take the rough with the smooth – on days like this.