A pioneering night-time rescue mission in the Dolomites has marked a significant milestone for helicopter emergency medical services and mountain rescue operations in Italy.

The mission involved, for the first time, an Avincis crew operating from the Treviso HEMS base rescuing two German mountaineers who had become stranded and suspended in mid-air at an altitude of approximately 2,300 metres on the face of the iconic 5 Torri mountain near Cortina, Italy.

While mountain rescues in daylight already require exceptional skill and precision, conducting the operation at night introduced an entirely new level of complexity. Using Night Vision Goggles (NVG), external lighting systems and advanced winch rescue techniques, the crew carried out a mission that demanded meticulous preparation, disciplined risk management and seamless coordination between all personnel involved.

The operation also marked a significant milestone for the Leonardo AW169, becoming the first rescue of its kind conducted at night in an NVG-equipped configuration. Operating at high altitude in the challenging environment of the Dolomites, the aircraft demonstrated its capability to support missions that push the boundaries of modern helicopter rescue operations.

The rescue was carried out by Captain Francesco Tebaldi, alongside co-pilot Ulrich, winch operator Marcello, mountain rescue specialist Diego from the regional CNSAS rescue service, and medical personnel Alessandro and Elisa from Treviso SUEM. The wider operation was supported by dedicated ground teams throughout the mission, which took place between 1am and 3am.

“This was a significant achievement that demonstrated the reliability and expertise of our teams in serving a long-standing client, in a complex and challenging environment such as the Dolomites in the Veneto Region,” said Captain Francesco Tebaldi.

The mission underlines the importance of preparation, teamwork and operational excellence in demanding rescue environments, where every element of the operation must work together to ensure a successful outcome. It also demonstrates how NVG technology, advanced aircraft capability and highly trained crews are expanding the boundaries of what is possible in mountain rescue operations.

Thanks to the expertise and commitment of our crews and partners, critical emergency services continue to be delivered safely and effectively, even in some of Europe’s most challenging mountain environments and operating conditions.