Lama helicopters are utilized for Search and Rescue (SAR) operations in the Andes Mountains. They famously reached Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Americas, in 1977 and were also operated by the Army.
As of 2019, H-63 and H-68, in their distinctive red livery, remained in service.
In 2024, an agreement with India's HAL enabled the return to flight status of three additional helicopters.
Feb 16, 2023 · During Aero-India 2023 Argentina awarded HAL contract to repair, overhaul and supply spare parts for Turbomeca Artouste engines of the SA315B Lama helicopters of the Argentine Air Force Andes mountains rescue squadron
Sep 25, 2019 · The new Airbus BK117D3 / H145 5-bladed landed on Americas’ highest peak, Mount Aconcagua in Argentina at 6,962 metres ~ 22,840 feet. This was the first time a twin-engine helicopter landed there
Feb 21, 2000 · Argentine Lamas worked at 1947 plane crash site 2048 m (8,100 feet) high in the Andes Mountains to bring down remains of the Avro Lancastrian Star Dust missing for decades