ÖAMTC Air Rescue
Approximately 22,000 missions each year—and one goal: to help people in need as quickly as possible. ÖAMTC Air Rescue is one of Europe’s leading air rescue organizations and has been synonymous with fast, professional air rescue for decades. With a nationwide network of bases, modern rescue helicopters, and highly qualified crews, it ensures that patients can receive prompt medical care even under the most challenging conditions.
Whether it’s emergencies in alpine terrain, traffic accidents, acute medical emergencies, or inter-hospital transfers: When every minute counts, ÖAMTC Air Rescue delivers state-of-the-art emergency medical care directly to the scene. Thousands of lives have been saved thanks to this aerial assistance, and many serious complications have been prevented. Day after day, our crews draw on their expertise, experience, and passion to provide the best possible care to people in need.
Our Divisions
Under the umbrella of the ÖAMTC Air Rescue there are four specialized organizations: the Christophorus Air Rescue Association (CFV), Helikopter Air Transport GmbH (HeliAir), the Elikos GmbH, and the Heli Ambulance Team (HAT).
Christophorus Air Rescue Association (CFV)
A nonprofit organization and the operator of the ÖAMTC Air Rescue Service. Its goal is to provide the best possible emergency medical care to patients in need using emergency medical helicopters.
More About the Club
Helikopter Air Transport GmbH (HeliAir)
HeliAir is the maintenance provider for ÖAMTC Air Rescue and one of Europe's leading helicopter service companies. The company specializes in the maintenance, modification, design, and repair of helicopters.
More about HeliAir
Helicopter Ambulance Team (HAT)
The Heli Ambulance Team was founded in 2001 by the ÖAMTC and the helicopter company Wucher. Today, ÖAMTC Air Rescue operates four seasonal winter bases that supplement the Christophorus fleet in ski resorts with high tourist traffic.
Learn more about our winter locations
Elikos, LLC
Elikos GmbH, based in Gröden, specializes in cargo and passenger transport in the Alpine region. Since 2024, the company has been supporting ÖAMTC Air Rescue with its experience and operational expertise.
More about Elikos
Stories & News
People, Missions, and Innovations – Discover inspiring stories, the latest developments, and fascinating insights from the world of air rescue.
- Christophorus
C18: Neurological Emergency in Burgenland
A CT scan was performed right on site. In early July 2026, Christophorus 18 was briefly ...
- Christophorus
500,000th Mission: ÖAMTC Air Rescue Reaches Historic Milestone
Anniversary Highlights Importance to Emergency Care and the Health Care System. On May 14, 2026, ...
- Christophorus
ÖAMTC Air Rescue Celebrates Milestone with a Ceremony
An anniversary celebration with international guests and a look back at the 25th anniversary of the takeover of the BMI air rescue bases. ...
Frequently Asked Questions About ÖAMTC Air Rescue
How many helicopters does ÖAMTC Air Rescue operate?
ÖAMTC Air Rescue operates 18 year-round bases and one intensive care transport helicopter. In the winter, four seasonal bases are added. In total, ÖAMTC Air Rescue currently has 31 Airbus H135 helicopters.
How is an emergency medical helicopter dispatched?
Requests are made via the 144 emergency number and the Austrian Red Cross dispatch centers, or in Vienna via the Vienna Professional Rescue Service and, in Lower Austria and Tyrol, via the provincial control centers.
In what types of situations is the air rescue service deployed?
The ÖAMTC Air Rescue Service is designed to reach patients as quickly as possible. Thanks to its network of bases throughout Austria, it can reach many locations within a short time.
Do patients have to pay for the service?
Generally,the ÖAMTC Air Rescue does not send patients:innare . Exceptions apply to missions following sports and recreational accidents in alpine areas or when the costs are covered by private insurance.
HeliAir for Businesses
HeliAir is one of Europe's leading helicopter service providers and offers customized solutions for operators, companies, and public institutions. With decades of experience and extensive technical expertise, HeliAir supports customers throughout the entire lifecycle of a helicopter.
From maintenance and repairs to modifications and upgrades, as well as custom design and outfitting solutions, HeliAir offers a full range of services under one roof. The highest quality standards, certified processes, and an experienced team ensure that helicopters remain safe, reliable, and ready for operation at all times.