Elisoccorso Milano celebrates 40 years of emergency air rescue

Elisoccorso Milano celebrated its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of emergency medical services in the Lombardy region. The milestone event was held at the Bresso base and organized by the Milan territorial branch of the Agenzia Regionale Emergenza Urgenza (Areu).

Since its activation on August 1, 1986, the service has undergone significant technological and operational evolution. It began with an AW 109 helicopter stationed at Niguarda Hospital, with missions activated via radio by Milan's urban police. Over the years, the fleet expanded to include the BK 117, the AB 412 equipped with a winch, and the AW 139.

Key developments include the integration of specialized HEMS-SAR training, the inclusion of National Alpine and Speleological Rescue (CNSAS) technicians in crews, and the transition to 24-hour operations in May 2007. The service also implemented specialized projects such as ELI_STEN for the transport of critically ill infants.