Swiss Air-Rescue (Rega) is acquiring eight AgustaWestland Grands for mountain rescue and ambulance operations.

Rega official say the Grand was selected as the best helicopter capable of carrying out high altitude and high temperature rescue missions. This followed a rigorous evaluation process including test flight activities.

The Grand will also carry out missions such as the rapid transfer of severely injured patients from hospital to hospital providing them with specialised medical treatment in flight.

The Grand is an intermediate-size helicopter with light twin economics, spacious, unobstructed passenger cabin and a wide sliding cabin door on both sides designed to give easy access for passengers, patients and attendants.