The United States has submitted a paper to the ICAO/IMO Joint Working Group on Search and Rescue (SAR JWG), asking organisations to share their experiences of using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) in SAR.

The paper – “Establishing a framework for content within the IAMSAR Manual on remotely piloted aircraft and other autonomous craft” – recognises the growing role of autonomous systems, both aeronautical and maritime, in search and rescue. It calls for a discussion on how these technologies should be reflected in future editions of the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue Manual (IAMSAR).

At present, the IAMSAR Manual makes only a brief reference to remotely piloted aircraft. However, as more States and organisations bring UAVs and other autonomous craft into operational use, there is a need to capture common practices, ensure consistent terminology and share lessons learned.

The US proposal suggests that any future guidance would start with general material in selected sections of the Manual, with more detailed content to follow as operational knowledge develops. This work would feed into amendments planned for the 2028 edition.

The IMRF will be contributing to this discussion and is keen to ensure the views of its members are included. We are therefore inviting members to share their experience of UAVs and RPAS in SAR, whether successful applications, challenges faced, or lessons learned.

This feedback will not only help inform IMRF’s contribution to the JWG, but will also support the wider Global SAR Systems Review, where new and emerging technologies are an important focus.

Call to Action

IMRF members with relevant experience are asked to send their views to Roly McKie by middle of October. Your input will help us present a clear, collective response at the JWG meeting and ensure the voice of the maritime SAR community is heard, as well as feeding into our Global SAR Systems Review.