In 1987, the Geneva civil protection authority signed a collaboration agreement with Rega and Geneva University Hospitals (HUG). Within the framework of this cooperation, HUG supplied Rega with anaesthetists, thus providing the team with specialist medical expertise. This meant that the Geneva helicopter crew could now be deployed for rescue missions and patient transports using the radio call sign, “Rega 15”. All missions performed by “Rega 15” are coordinated by Rega’s Operations Center and the Geneva 144 emergency call center (CASU). In 2001, the helicopter base celebrated its 30th anniversary. At the same time, a cantonal vote on legislation relating to the quality, speed and efficiency of urgent medical transports led to the Geneva base becoming affiliated to Geneva University Hospitals. In 2003, the Ecureuil rescue helicopter was replaced by a new twin-engine EC135 helicopter. 

Investing in the future

On 25 June 2025, Rega stationed a new five-blade Airbus H145 D3 rescue helicopter in Geneva. This involved first enlarging the existing hangar for the Geneva crew. The refurbishment of the base included installing new bedrooms for the crews in order to ensure continuous standby for patients during the day and at night. This progress in night-time operational readiness improves medical assistance by air for the population across the whole region. 

Broad scope of operations

Whether accident, illness or search flight: the helicopter flies around 350 missions every year. In addition, the Geneva crew regularly works together with various operational partners, such as the Geneva Fire Service (SIS), Swiss Alpine Rescue (ARS), the French emergency medical service (SAMU), the International Rescue Society of the Lake of Geneva (SISL) and Geneva Airport Security Services (SSA).