The ICAO Search and Rescue Mission Coordinator (SMC) Course equips aviation and military personnel with essential skills. Consequently, they are prepared to lead Search and Rescue (SAR) operations effectively. This course follows ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) to ensure participants gain globally recognized competencies. By combining theory, case studies, and practical exercises, the course prepares participants for real-life SAR scenarios.
First, participants learn to identify aircraft emergency phases, plot interception tracks, determine datum positions, and prepare accurate SAR action plans. Next, they practice allocating resources to search areas, monitoring ongoing operations, and evaluating outcomes. These hands-on activities strengthen decision-making, situational awareness, and coordination among air traffic control, military, and navy operations teams.
Civil Air Traffic Controllers, Military ATCOs, and Navy Operations Officers form the primary audience for this ICAO Search and Rescue Mission Coordinator (SMC) Course. Additionally, secondary participants include SAR supervisors, aviation safety specialists, and emergency response personnel. Civil ATCOs need a minimum of five years of operational experience to enroll.
The course structure includes an introduction, aircraft emergency phases, plotting aircraft interception, determining aircraft datum, and preparing SAR action plans. Furthermore, it covers allocating resources, monitoring SAR progress, and evaluating outcomes. Each module emphasizes practical tasks and real-world application to improve operational efficiency.
Finally, by completing this ICAO Search and Rescue Mission Coordinator (SMC) Course, participants gain the confidence to coordinate SAR missions quickly and accurately. As a result, they reduce search time, enhance collaboration, and increase the success of rescue operations. Moreover, organizations benefit by improving SAR readiness and compliance with ICAO guidelines. Overall, this course helps professionals expand their SAR expertise. In addition, participants earn an internationally recognized qualification that demonstrates skill and reliability in aviation emergency management.


