Helicopter

A single turbine engine helicopter was used until Winter of 2003.  The Aluette III was used in 1987 and in 1989 the Ecureuil, type B, BA,B1, B2 and B3; all of which single turbine engines.

In September 2003, ENAC applied the EU regulations, mandating that helicopters used for rescue must be equiped with twin turbine engines. Therefore 'Aiut Alpin Dolomites' with the many years of experience and consultation with international experts, decided to opt for the twin-engined helicopter EUROCOPTER EC 135 T2. It was not possible to lease one of these type of helicopters in Italy, so 'Aiut Alpin Dolomites' made the decision to purchase one. It took a year to deliver the helicopter with all the necessary accessories for mountain rescue. The EC 135 T2 was delivered to the 'Aiut Alpin Dolomites' in May 2004 directly to Eurocopter headquarters in Donauwörth (Germany), series no: 327. The EC 135 T2 was the first in the world to be fitted with a winch with 90 m cable.

The total costs of the Helicopter, including all the medical equipment, 90m winch, and double hoist hook, amounted to Euro 3.5 million. Most of the amount was financed with a long-term loan from the Raiffeisen Banks of Castlerotto, Val Gardena, Val Badia, Brunico and the Central Raiffeisen Bank of Alto Adige.