Search Advisory Group
When an emergency-service search has been stood down, our missing-person searches can offer families renewed hope, continued support and another vital opportunity to find answers about their loved one.
An effective search begins long before an aircraft takes off. Civil Air Support’s Search Advisory Group (SAG) brings together experienced former police officers and other specialists to turn the available information into credible search scenarios.
By considering what is known about the incident, the surrounding circumstances and whether the location is suitable for aerial observation, the SAG helps our Operations Managers determine whether Civil Air Support can make a valuable contribution—and where its efforts should be focused.
Throughout the process, we work closely with the police and any other agencies involved, ensuring that our efforts complement their work and that all search activity is fully coordinated with the Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre (ARCC).
What the group does…
Gather & assess information
The group considers relevant and responsibly obtained information about the incident, location and surrounding circumstances.
Build credible scenarios
Civil Air Support Members use their experience to consider what may have happened and identify areas where an aerial search could be most productive.
Assess aerial suitability
Not every location or incident is suitable for searching from the air. The group helps determine whether an aircraft is likely to add genuine value.
Advise the operations team
The resulting advice helps Operations Managers plan an appropriate response and deploy suitable crews, aircraft and equipment.
How advice becomes action…
1. Incident identified
Civil Air Support receives a request or becomes aware of a situation in which aerial assistance may be useful.
2. Information reviewed
Available information is gathered and considered by the Search Advisory Group.
3. Search scenarios developed
The group identifies credible possibilities and areas of interest.
4. Aerial role assessed
The group advises whether aerial searching is appropriate and how it could be conducted effectively.
5. Mission considered
An Operations Manager uses that advice when planning and authorising any Civil Air Support mission.
The Search Advisory Group provides specialist advice. Operational decisions remain with Civil Air Support’s Operations Managers, while the aircraft captain retains complete authority over the conduct and safety of every flight.
Searching with purpose
Aircraft can cover large areas quickly, but searching widely without a credible plan may achieve very little.
The Search Advisory Group helps focus attention on areas supported by the available information. This evidence-led approach makes better use of volunteer crews and aircraft, reduces unnecessary flying and increases the likelihood that aerial observation will provide useful information.
The group will also advise when aerial searching is unlikely to be effective. Terrain, weather, visibility, the nature of the target and the quality of the available information can all influence whether an aircraft is the right resource.
Spotting an object or person on the ground from the air can be extremely difficult, even when an aircraft is flying at its slowest practical speed of around 60 – 70 mph. During aerial searches, our trained Observers therefore use high-resolution camera equipment to capture large numbers of detailed images of the search area. These images are then uploaded for our team of assessors to examine painstakingly for anything that may be of interest. Where a potential clue or area of concern is identified, we can provide its location to ground search teams so that they can investigate further.
Could our aerial search capability assist you?
If your organisation is considering whether voluntary aerial observation could assist with a search or developing incident, contact Civil Air Support.
Our operations team will discuss the circumstances, consult the Search Advisory Group where appropriate and determine whether we can provide useful assistance.
Working alongside others
Civil Air Support does not replace the police, Coastguard, mountain rescue teams or other statutory and voluntary services.
Where appropriate, our Search Advisory Group and Operations Managers work with requesting organisations and other relevant contacts to understand how voluntary aviation resources might complement the wider response.
Safety and limitations
Civil Air Support is not an emergency service and does not self-deploy aircraft into an incident. Every potential operation is assessed and approved through our established procedures.
Flights proceed only when there is a clear and useful role for Civil Air Support, suitable volunteers and aircraft are available, and the mission can be conducted safely.
How to engage us
Would you like more information about our capabilities and how we can deliver to your specific needs? If you wish to engage us, you can do so by telephone or email. You can also leave us a message by completing the form below.
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Civil Air Support is registered as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation in England & Wales (1211035) and Scotland (SC054794)