Air Aid - DRF Takes Over All Stations in Berlin - Berlin's new Christoph 31 helicopter boosts Germany's air rescue network

Germany's air rescue network has expanded with a new base in Berlin. The third helicopter station, named Christoph 31, now operates under DRF Luftrettung after ADAC's concession ended. This change comes as emergency callouts continue to rise across the country.

The new rescue base, Station 31, is located at Charité Campus Benjamin Franklin. Its helicopter, Christoph 31, runs daily from early morning until late evening. In 2025 alone, it responded to 2,430 emergencies—a 17% increase from the previous year.

All German air ambulances carry the name Christoph, followed by a number indicating their station or commissioning order. DRF Luftrettung now manages all three helicopter stations in Berlin, including the latest addition. Christoph 31 can reach any emergency site within 15 minutes, ensuring rapid response times.

Nationwide, DRF Luftrettung's helicopters and aircraft handled 36,407 emergencies in 2025, up 1.6% from the year before. The organisation currently operates 10 of Germany's 31 standard Christoph stations. Both DRF and ADAC Luftrettung, the largest providers, reported that accidents and cardiovascular crises—such as heart attacks and strokes—remained the most common callouts.

The transfer of Christoph 31 to DRF Luftrettung follows the expiry of ADAC's contract at the end of 2025. With faster response capabilities and growing demand, the expanded service aims to strengthen emergency care in Berlin. The shift reflects ongoing efforts to improve air rescue coverage across Germany.