IMRF to Develop Training and Standards Guidance for Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centres

The IMRF is launching a new initiative to create Training and Standards Guidance (TSG) for Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centres (ARCCs). ARCCs are a vital link in global search and rescue (SAR) systems, responsible for coordinating aeronautical SAR operations that often span both land and maritime environments. This project aims to strengthen global SAR capacity by providing best practice guidance, training resources, and practical tools for ARCC personnel. 

The project will build on the success of previous IMRF guidance, such as that developed for Rescue Boat operators, and will be developed and reviewed by the IMRF SAR Aviation Panel. This panel, which meets regularly to share expertise and discuss issues, brings together SAR aviation professionals from across the world to ensure the guidance reflects real-world operations and global perspectives. You can find out more about the Aviation panel here. 

The work will be delivered in phases. Phase 1, starting in October 2025 and running until January 2026, will focus on developing the concept and framework for detailed guidelines that will outline best practices for ARCC operations. These will eventually cover key areas such as ICAO Annex 12 requirements, communication protocols, operational planning, SAR techniques, the use of aviation and maritime assets, incident management, and inter-agency collaboration. The concept of the ARCC Guidance will be introduced to the ICAO-IMO Joint SAR Working Group in Sydney in November 2025, with further development and consultation to follow in 2026. 

Phase 2, beginning in June 2026 and running until September 2026, will focus on creating a suite of training modules to provide ARCC personnel with the in-depth knowledge and skills needed to complement the guidelines. These will also consider land SAR procedures, recognising that many ARCCs have responsibilities beyond maritime environments. 

Future phases, subject to feedback from the SAR Aviation Panel and the wider community, could include case studies of successful ARCC operations and practical workshops or online training sessions. These would allow ARCC personnel to apply their knowledge in realistic scenarios and learn from international best practice. 

Through this project, the IMRF seeks to provide ARCCs with clear, practical, and consistent resources that will strengthen their ability to coordinate effective SAR operations and ultimately save more lives. 

If you’d like any further details, please email [email protected].