Swiss Alpine Rescue has published its annual report crediting drone-assisted operations with saving 47 lives during the 2025-2026 winter season — a 35% improvement over the previous year. Thermal-imaging drones proved particularly effective in locating buried avalanche victims and lost hikers in whiteout conditions where helicopter operations were impossible.
The fleet of 24 specialized rescue drones includes models capable of delivering emergency supplies including medical kits, thermal blankets, and communication devices to stranded individuals before ground teams can reach them. Average response time from alert to victim location dropped from 90 minutes to 22 minutes.
The success has prompted Austria, France, and Italy to adopt similar drone rescue programs. The European Union is now funding a cross-border alpine drone rescue coordination system to enable seamless operations across national boundaries.