The ICAO EUR Search and Rescue (ICAO EUR SAR) Workshop, combined with a Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX), successfully convened at the Joint Rescue Coordination Center (JRCC) in Larnaca, Cyprus, from October 5th to 6th, 2023. This significant event, preceded by the Twelfth meeting of the EUR Search and Rescue Task Force (EUR SAR TF/12) on October 4th, was a joint effort by the ICAO EUR/NAT Regional Office and the JRCC of the Republic of Cyprus.
The three-day SAR event attracted a substantial international presence, with 95 participants representing 35 States, 5 international and European Organizations, and 2 airlines. The workshop served as a crucial platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration in the realm of aviation search and rescue operations within the European region.
The official opening of the Workshop featured addresses from key figures, including JRCC Commander Andreas Charalambides and His Excellency Mr. Alexis Vafeadis, the Minister of Transport, Communications and Works of Cyprus. Mr. Elkhan Nahmadov, ICAO EUR/NAT Deputy Regional Director, delivered an opening speech that underscored ICAO’s perspectives and priorities concerning the critical topics slated for discussion throughout the workshop. Speakers and participants alike voiced their gratitude to Cyprus and ICAO for their collaborative efforts in organizing this regionally vital event, highlighting its importance for advancing SAR capabilities.
The primary objective of the Workshop was to enhance awareness of contemporary SAR activities, facilitate the sharing of practical experiences, and address pertinent regional implementation challenges. Discussions during the workshop centered on the implementation of the Global Aeronautical Distress and Safety System (GADSS) and effective SAR oversight mechanisms. A highlight of the event was a full-scale SAR exercise conducted on October 6th, providing a practical demonstration of the Republic of Cyprus’s SAR procedures in action. Participants had the opportunity to observe firsthand the operational aspects of SAR services, the activation of aerodrome emergency plans, and the protocols for delivering assistance to aircraft accident victims and their families, crucial elements in effective emergency response.
The EUR SAR TF, under the chairmanship of Mr. Nikola Sarancic (Serbia), played a key role in the proceedings. The Task Force reviewed the current status of SAR provision implementation within the EUR region, facilitated experience sharing among participants, and strategized on future actions. A significant focus was placed on the timely implementation of ICAO standards concerning the location of aeroplanes in distress, a critical aspect of modern aviation safety. The report summarizing the EUR SAR TF activities, including key recommendations, is scheduled to be presented at the upcoming EASPG/5 meeting from November 29th to December 1st, 2023, ensuring continued progress and development in the field of aviation search and rescue.
