Missing Hiker Found After Nearly a Year: How AI Identified His Helmet

How long does it take to locate a missing hiker’s helmet in a vast 183-hectare area? If done manually, this could take weeks or even months. However, with the help of artificial intelligence (AI), the same task can be completed in just one afternoon. Recently, the National Alpine and Speleological Rescue Corps (CNSAS) used AI in a critical search for a missing doctor in Italy’s Piedmont region.

Dr. Nicola Ivaldo, a 64-year-old Ligurian, went missing in September 2024 on the northern face of Monviso, the highest peak in the Cottian Alps. His helmet, contrasting against the mountainous terrain, ultimately led to the recovery of his body on July 31, more than ten months after his disappearance.

Saverio Isola, a drone pilot for CNSAS, described the operation, which lasted under three days despite facing difficult weather conditions. On a Tuesday morning, two drones collected thousands of images, analyzing them with AI software that afternoon. By evening, the team had identified several “suspicious spots” for further investigation.

Waking up at 4 a.m. the next day, the team accessed a vantage point with clear visibility. They confirmed that a red pixel detected by the AI software was in fact the helmet. After taking necessary photos and data, they coordinated with the rescue team for a helicopter recovery.

CNSAS has been using drones for about five years, incorporating advanced color and shape recognition technologies over the last 18 months. Isola emphasized the importance of teamwork, stating, “It’s a human achievement, but without technology, it would have been an impossible mission.”

This blend of human effort and technology illustrates a significant shift in rescue operations. For instance, a recent survey indicated that over 70% of rescue teams worldwide are now integrating AI and drones into their protocols, showcasing a growing reliance on technology to save lives.

As AI evolves, the combination of human skill and machine efficiency promises to enhance rescue missions even further, potentially reducing the time taken to locate and save those in peril. This shift not only highlights the importance of technology in emergency situations but also reflects a broader trend where innovation meets humanitarian efforts.

For more on the role of AI in rescue operations, you can explore resources from the Italian National Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC).

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technology,artificial intelligence,drones