The Directorate of Flying Safety-ADF and the Bureau of Air
Safety Investigation (ATSB) recommends that AusSAR in conjunction
with the Australian Defence Force and Airservices Australia
investigate methods of improving communication links for SAR
operations.
This recommendation is being addressed in the context of ongoing
systemic changes to Flight Service and associated aeronautical
communications. AusSAR, in consultation with Airservices Australia,
is examining both SAR communications requirements and mechanisms to
deliver them.
As an operational practice, AusSAR provides communications support
for search aircraft when necessary by positioning a top cover
aircraft at high level. This facilitates VHF communications between
Airservices operators and low level search aircraft.
It is considered that the intent of this recommendation has been
satisfied, noting that technological changes and evolving air
traffic services will tend to invoke continuous improvement
processes in any case.
