Isola del Gran Sasso d'Italia, Italy - November 16, 2024 In a breathtaking operation high in the Abruzzo mountains, the historic "Andrea Bafile" bivouac was removed from its perch on the Gran Sasso massif on Saturday, November 16, 2024. For nearly six decades, the shelter—erected in 1966—served as a crucial emergency refuge for climbers and rescuers at 2,669 meters above sea level. After weeks of meticulous planning and technical rehearsals, an Erickson S-64 helicopter, known as "Cochise," successfully airlifted the bivouac in a precision maneuver carried out by the Italian Fire Brigade. Personnel from the Alpine Rescue Corps and Nanni School mountain guides prepared the bivouac for transport. Once secured to the helicopter’s hook, the structure was carefully relocated to Fontari and will undergo restoration before being showcased in the historic center of L’Aquila. An additional "Drago" helicopter provided logistical support throughout the complex operation, highlighting the careful coordination required to preserve this iconic mountain landmark.