Founded in 1988 as a non-profit association at the instigation of , the Luxembourg Air Rescue is recognised as being of public interest by a grand ducal decree. Thirty-six years on, Closter--who became chairman after serving as managing director until 2022--is still very much involved with Luxembourg Air Rescue. His unfailing investment in the service of rescue and health in Luxembourg and the Greater Region recently earned him an award from Vertical Aviation International, the world’s largest helicopter industry trade association.
“Under his visionary leadership, the LAR has grown to become one of the leading organisations in the field of air rescue and medical repatriation in Europe,” the foundation wrote in a statement. “Thanks to his tireless efforts and dedication, the only air rescue organisation in Luxembourg and the Greater Region has become an indispensable institution that saves thousands of lives every year.”
The career of this former firefighter and pilot is inextricably linked with the destiny of the Luxembourg Air Rescue. In 2015, Closter had already been awarded the Foundation prize for the promotion of Luxembourg-German cooperation in the field of science by Deutsche Bank. He was also appointed Knight of the Order of Nassau with Crown in June 2021 and Officer in the Order of Civil and Military Merit of Adolphe de Nassau by Grand Duke Henri. His commitment has also been recognised in Belgium. There, Closter was awarded the title of Officer in the Order of the Crown by King Albert II of Belgium.
“This award is a great honour and recognition of the hard work and dedication of our entire team at Luxembourg Air Rescue. I am proud of what we have achieved and delighted that our efforts are being recognised internationally,” Closter said at the awards ceremony held at the Verticon World Conference.
The LAR now operates a fleet of six rescue helicopters and five air ambulances and carries out an average of more than 3,000 missions a year. Last December, together with the CGDIS, the LAR was awarded the Benelux Prize for its response to the fire at the Kennedy Tower in Liège in June 2024. The LAR was also by the International Travel & Health Insurance Journal.
This article was originally published in .