On May 24, 2024, Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner and Styrian Governor Christopher Drexler ceremoniously retired the long-serving Alouette III multi-purpose helicopter from the Austrian Armed Forces fleet. After 56 years in service, the Alouette III is being replaced by the modern Leonardo AW169. The Aérospatiale SA-319 Alouette III, which has been in service since 1968, played a central role in Austria's military aviation. Its area of ​​​​operations included search and rescue missions, transport flights and support for disaster relief operations. Flight operations will officially cease at the end of the first half of 2024, with operational flight operations ending on December 31, 2023. The ceremony in Aigen im Ennstal was organized by the Air Support Command and the Multi-Purpose Helicopter Squadron. The event marked the end of an era and honored the long and varied service of the Alouette III. By purchasing the Leonardo AW169, the Austrian Armed Forces are investing in more modern technology and better equipment to meet future challenges. The AW169 offers expanded operational options and higher performance, which better meets the requirements of today's military and civilian operations. The introduction of the AW169 represents a significant advance in the aviation capacity of the Austrian Armed Forces. This modern helicopter will not only replace the Alouette III, but will also contribute to the modernization and increased efficiency of the Austrian armed forces. In her speech, Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner emphasized the importance of modernization for the operational readiness of the Austrian Armed Forces and praised the long and reliable service of the Alouette III. Governor Christopher Drexler also recognized the services of the helicopter and the importance of air support for the region.