Rega (air rescue)

Rega, officially known as the Swiss Air-Rescue Rega (German: Schweizerische Rettungsflugwacht Rega; French: Garde aérienne suisse de sauvetage Rega; Italian: Guardia aerea svizzera di soccorso Rega), is a non-profit private foundation that provides emergency medical assistance in Switzerland and Liechtenstein.

Rega's primary mission is to provide air rescue services, particularly in mountainous regions or other areas difficult to access by ground transportation. This includes helicopter-based emergency medical services (HEMS), search and rescue (SAR) operations, and patient transfers. Rega operates a fleet of helicopters and ambulance jets stationed at various bases throughout Switzerland.

The organization is independent of the state but operates under a service level agreement with the Swiss government. Its funding comes primarily from donations and contributions from its patrons, supplemented by fees for services provided. Rega is a vital part of the Swiss emergency medical response system, working closely with other organizations such as hospitals, police, and fire departments.

Rega also operates a medical advice hotline and provides medical support to Swiss citizens abroad through its repatriation services. They coordinate the return of patients to Switzerland who require medical care.