60,000 Helicopter Rescues by Air Zermatt
Air Zermatt is making history: On Tuesday at midday, the Valais-based helicopter company successfully completed its 60,000th rescue mission. This number represents far more than just operations—it stands for pioneering spirit, professionalism, and countless lives saved.
When Beat Perren founded Air Zermatt in 1968, modern helicopter rescue was still in its infancy. But with tireless pioneering spirit, technological advancements, and a clear mission—to help people in need—the company developed a rescue system that set global standards. “60,000 missions—that's an enormous number, filled with history, joy, but also sorrow,” says company founder Beat Perren. In its first year, Air Zermatt carried out 93 rescue missions—today, it completes well over 2,000 annually. “This development shows the indispensable role that Air Zermatt plays in the Valais rescue system today,” Perren remarks in the special episode of the Alpha Zulu Podcast, available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Responsibility and Gratitude
For over a year, Daniel Aufdenblatten, an experienced pilot, has been leading Air Zermatt as CEO. “60,000 rescue missions mean 60,000 destinies,” he emphasizes. “Most of them are stories of hope and joy, but some are also about tragedy and loss.” The 60,000th mission involved transporting an injured skier from Blatten-Belalp to the hospital in Visp with a suspected traumatic brain injury and breathing difficulties.
As a seasoned pilot, Aufdenblatten has personally experienced the gratitude of patients and their families countless times. “Today, I would like to say ‘thank you’ 60,000 times—to our employees, our partners, and all those who place their trust in us in difficult situations.” Each of the 60,000 missions is a motivation to remain true to Air Zermatt’s high standards: helping people in need—today and in the future, Aufdenblatten affirms.
An Indispensable Pillar in the Valais Rescue System
In the Alpha Zulu Podcast, Fredy-Michel Roten, Director of the Cantonal Valais Rescue Organization (KWRO, emergency number 144), speaks about the central role of Air Zermatt in the rescue system. Each year, the KWRO calls on Valais' air rescue service for more than 2,000 missions. “We know that our patients are in the best hands with Air Zermatt,” Roten emphasizes. Especially in the high-alpine terrain of Valais, pioneering spirit and experience are essential—and Air Zermatt brings both.
Special Episode of the Alpha Zulu Podcast
To mark the 60,000th rescue mission, the Alpha Zulu Podcast is dedicating a special episode to this milestone. The episode tells the story of Air Zermatt’s development, its responsibilities, and the emotional moments that come with 60,000 missions. Listen to the podcast here: [Insert Link]