Search and Rescue (SAR) Operations

Search and Rescue (SAR) is a critical function in aviation safety, requiring coordinated action, clear communication, and skilled operational planning. This class provides a structured introduction to SAR principles and practices, closely following international standards and operational realities.

Participants will explore the full SAR process - system organization, mission documentation, coordination procedures, communication requirements, operational stages, and initial actions. They will learn key concepts in search planning and evaluation, resource allocation, search techniques, rescue planning, and the effective use of available assets. Throughout the class, participants will work through scenario-based demonstrations to understand how different SAR elements come together during real operations. The training concludes with guidance on the proper termination of SAR missions and the preparation of clear, defensible SAR reports.

By the end of the class, participants will have a solid foundation in SAR operations and a practical understanding of how to support or coordinate a SAR mission from start to finish.

By the end of this class, participants will be equipped to:

1. Explain the structure, roles, and coordination mechanisms of aviation Search and Rescue systems
2. Apply SAR operational stages, including awareness, initial action, emergency assistance, and mission coordination
3. Use basic search planning and evaluation concepts to determine search areas and allocate resources
4. Describe key search techniques and principles of rescue planning
5. Prepare mission documentation and write clear, structured SAR reports

1. Airline and airport operations personnel
2. Safety and emergency response managers
3. Air traffic services and flight operations staff
4. Airport and ground operations professionals
5. Aviation authority and regulator representatives
6. Professionals involved in emergency preparedness and response