Drone Search & Rescue

Schedule:

July 24 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

A search and rescue (SAR) drone class typically combines classroom instruction with practical flight training to prepare participants to support aerial search operations safely and effectively. These courses are designed for public safety personnel, volunteers, or commercial drone pilots who want to integrate unmanned aircraft systems into SAR missions.

A comprehensive course generally covers:

• Introduction to UAS in SAR: Role of drones, common mission types, platforms and sensor payloads such as thermal cameras.

• Mission Planning: Developing search strategies, choosing appropriate search patterns, and understanding lost person behavior.

• Operational Execution: Preflight preparation, coordination with ground teams, communication procedures, and real-time mission management.

• Safety and Regulations: Risk management, compliance with aviation rules (including FAA Part 107 requirements), and standard operating procedures.

• Practical Skills: Hands-on flight sessions applying aerial search techniques, scenario drills, and post-mission debriefs.

To register, please contact Mr. Rick Eades - reades@mitchellcc.edu

Class presented by Mitchell Community College & Blue Ridge Mountain Drones