Trapani, 18/04/2026 – A successful conclusion to complex rescue operation in favour of a climber of Polish nationality, who injured his ankle during the ascent of Monte Monaco, along the “Via delle Punte”.

The man was part of a group of two rope teams, composed of compatriots, who were engaged in climbing the wall. The alarm was raised via the 118 Palermo-Trapani Operations Centre, which activated the Sicilian Alpine and Speleological Rescue (SASS).

Given the complexity of the operational scenario, SASS has requested support of the Italian Air Force, which through the Aerospace Operations Command has ordered the intervention of  an HH-139B helicopter of the 82nd SAR Centre of the 15th Wing, which took off from Trapani-Birgi. After embarking two SASS air rescue technicians, a first rescue attempt was made using Winch, but made impossible due to the Adverse weather conditions.

The two technicians were therefore landed at altitude, and subsequently the helicopter transported a further seven SASS operators, allowing the formation of a complete team on the rock face. The rescuers then reached the summit of Monte Monaco on foot, carrying the necessary equipment for the recovery.

Having identified the descent line, two SASS technicians were lowered approximately 120 metres down the wall, managing to reach the injured person. After having secured the climber, they immobilised the lower limb.

The climber was then recovered to the summit using a winch system for approximately 120 metres.

Subsequently, the injured person was stretchered and transported to a lower altitude, where the weather conditions allowed for helicopter intervention. The mountaineer was then boarded the helicopter and transferred to Trapani hospital, where he was entrusted to the care of the 118 healthcare personnel. With subsequent rotations, Alpine Rescue Technicians were also recovered. 

The operation required a high level of professionalism and coordination between the Air Force and the Sicilian Alpine and Speleological Rescue, confirming the effectiveness of the rescue system in difficult environments.

The 82nd SAR Centre of Trapani it depends on the 15th Wing of Cervia which guarantees, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the search and rescue of flight crews in difficulty, also contributing to public utility activities such as the search for missing persons at sea or in mountains, the urgent medical transport of patients in imminent danger of life and the rescue of severely traumatised individuals, operating also in complex meteorological conditions.

Since its establishment, the crews of the 15th Wing have saved thousands of lives. Since 2018, the Unit has also acquired the AIB (Wildfire Fighting) capability, contributing to the prevention and combating of fires throughout the national territory as part of the joint task force deployed by the Defence.