Maritime SAR Aviation Panel May 2026

Here is the recording of the Maritime Aviation SAR Meeting from 12th May 2026

Discussion of SAR Aviation Panel comment on ICAO-IMO SAR JWG correspondence group, drafting of text on supervision of aviation SAR services, for inclusion in the IAMSAR manual 2028 edition.
Experiences and views of the SAP.
Progress report on IMRF ARCC recommended Practices (Standards) document.

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Why do rescue boat helmets spread from one organisation to another?

In this blog, Jaakko Heikkilä, IMRF International Programme Manager, explores why some safety ideas spread easily in maritime SAR while others struggle, and what the adoption of helmets can tell us about how good practice travels.
IMRF grows global community and welcomes new members

The IMRF is pleased to welcome six new members to its global community. From emergency response services, humanitarian rescue organisations and an association representing independent lifeboat organisations to satellite technology, environmental policy research and aviation regulation, these new members bring valuable expertise and fresh perspectives to our international maritime search and rescue network.
IMO Member States back IMRF initiatives at Technical Cooperation Committee

The IMRF received strong support from Member States at the IMO Technical Cooperation Committee (TCC) for three key initiatives: the Global Maritime SAR System Review, Women in SAR and the IMRF SAR Academy. The positive response reinforces the IMRF’s role in advancing global search and rescue capability, promoting diversity within the sector and strengthening access to SAR training worldwide.
IMRF Maritime SAR Academy launches first modules

The IMRF Maritime SAR Academy is launching its first e-learning modules, marking a major milestone in the development of a new global learning platform for maritime search and rescue (SAR) personnel.

Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) and SAR

Commercial MASS and remotely operated vessels could play a significant part in future maritime SAR operations to help improve capabilities and operations.
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Basic Rescue Boat Operator Manual & Search Cards

This manual, together with the accompanying Rescue Boat Operator Search Cards, provides recommended best practice for any organisation looking at introducing basic training in Rescue Boat SAR operations.
SAR Matters: Defining Distress Continued ...

People known to be in distress need to be rescued, of course – and the SAR community knows that this concept must also be extended to those believed to be in distress, and to those who, while not yet in distress, will become so if help is not provided to them in the meantime.
MRO (Mass Rescue Operations Guidance)

The IMRF has developed the most comprehensive guidance available for planning and preparing for Mass Rescue Operations (MROs) in the maritime environment.
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