SAVING LIVES WITH AIR ZERMATT
SAVING LIVES WITH AIR ZERMATT
GOING INSIDE THE WORLD’S MOST ELITE SEARCH AND RESCUE OPERATION
High in the Alps, where the weather can shift in in the blink of an eye and avalanches are always a possibility, every second counts.
EPISODE 1
MOUNTAIN GUIDE
EPISODE 2
EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN
EPISODE 3
AVALANCHE DOG TRAINER
EPISODE 4
FLIGHT PARAMEDIC
EPISODE 5
AIRCRAFT TECHNICIAN
EPISODE 6
CHIEF
PILOT
HAMILTON X AIR ZERMATT
Hamilton proudly partners with Air Zermatt, one of the world’s leading mountain rescue teams, to create specialized timepieces tailored to the needs of their skilled pilots. Since becoming their official watch partner in 2011, we have collaborated closely to develop wristwatches that enhance their capabilities during critical rescue missions.
Founded in 1968, Air Zermatt features a highly trained team of 75 professionals, including pilots and paramedics, supported by a fleet of 11 helicopters. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to innovation and excellence, ensuring that every moment counts in life-saving operations.
EPISODE 1
MOUNTAIN GUIDE
Richard Lehner, a seasoned mountain guide with 30 years of experience in Zermatt, specializes in rescue missions and guiding clients globally. He emphasizes the importance of planning for mountain activities and trains other guides, motivated by a familial legacy of guiding.
“Time is always a crucial factor. There’s only a small window to get someone out alive” Richard Lehner
EPISODE 2
EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN
Astrid Kuonen, anaesthetist and emergency doctor at Air Zermatt, acts as the patient's advocate during operations. Her job requires quick decision-making in critical situations. She values personal safety and team support, inspired by her parents.
“In critical situations, where it’s a matter of life and death, time can sometimes be your worst enemy” Astrid Kuonen
EPISODE 3
AVALANCHE DOG TRAINER
Philipp Imboden is a rescue dog handler and founder of a training school, specializing in locating avalanche victims. He prioritizes quick response, teamwork with his dog, and safety in treacherous conditions, ultimately driven by a passion for helping others.
“We’re like parts of a jigsaw puzzle. That’s how we work well together. One person alone cannot achieve much” Philipp Imboden
EPISODE 4
FLIGHT PARAMEDIC
Dominik Imhof, a paramedic and former flight assistant for Air Zermatt, performs dual roles during helicopter rescues, managing medical duties and assisting pilots. He values quick decision-making, precision, and the fulfillment of helping patients, finding purpose through his challenging career.
“It’s all about quick decision-making – every second counts to save the patient.” Dominik Imhof
EPISODE 5
AIRCRAFT TECHNICIAN
Dominik Schranz is an aircraft technician with experience as a flight assistant at Air Zermatt. He emphasizes teamwork, precision in helicopter maintenance, and the importance of speaking up about safety. Dominik values thorough inspections and is passionate about working with helicopters.
“The precision is like a swiss watch. Everything has to work together.” Dominik Schranz
EPISODE 6
CHIEF PILOT
Samuel Summermatter is a rescue mission pilot and flight operations manager at Air Zermatt, focused on safety, risk assessment, and team collaboration. His extensive training and experience have shaped his leadership skills and passion for the challenging nature of aviation rescue missions.
“Nobody wants to die young, but death is always there, whether you take risks or not.” Samuel Summermatter
“The Time Factor” shows what’s possible under extreme conditions when people work together in a coordinate, collaborative way.
