cazador
Well-Known Member
I believe the limitations for SAR operations are cost, flight time limitations of batteries & resolution quality depending altitude. I also understand it can be very difficult to spot someone unless there's a huge variation between the person and the surroundings. Imagine a person curled up under tree cover. Yes, there been successful search operations using FLIR.
Now, FLIR that's mounted to police helicopters, that has super high resolution quality, that's probably around 100k, not including the helicopter. SAR just does not have the funds for this, even though they are called out, in most cases, strictly by the Sheriff's office. The capability of the military - well - that's just not going to be an option here. IMO
I think many SAR organizations are of the opinion this technology will be utilized but right now cannot replace actual boots on the ground.
Perhaps someone with more knowledge can chime in.
Cal Fire Copters .. They have it. My wife and myself had a personal tour by a pilot .. Maybe they could be pulled in if not being used for fire..? Still it does cost, as the pilot told me it costs around 300.00 per hour just to fly it because of maintenance..
Most SAR is Volunteer except for LE who is involved. So Drone cost and expense is on the Volunteer but there is high resolution and infrared available ..
SAR drones cost big dollars for an individual person.
Search and Rescue Drones
There is training available..
Search and Rescue Drone Training Course - DARTdrones Flight School