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PilotSchool Knowledge Base

Understanding SARTIME

Overview

SARTIME, an acronym for “Search Action Required Time,” is a critical element in flight planning and emergency response processes. It is a specified time pre-determined by the pilot, beyond which the initiation of Search and Rescue (SAR) operations will occur if the flight has not arrived at its intended destination or if the pilot has not canceled the flight notification.

Purpose of SARTIME

The primary purpose of SARTIME is to safeguard the pilot and aircraft by ensuring that SAR authorities, such as the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC), are informed in a timely manner if the flight is overdue. This system helps to prevent unnecessary SAR operations by confirming that pilots have safely completed their journey.

SARTIME in Flight Notifications

Lodging SARTIME

  • Method: SARTIME details can be submitted via the National Aeronautical Information Processing System (NAIPS), telephone (1800 814 931), or radio communication methods (HF/VHF).
  • Applicability: Primarily used for operations outside controlled airspace, but also applicable within controlled airspace by including SARTIME in flight plans.
  • While not mandatory for all flights, SARTIME is required for:
    1. Regular Public Transport (RPT) and Charter (CHTR) flights.
    2. Over-water and remote area flights.
    3. Flights extending 120 NM from the departure aerodrome at night.
  • Encouraged for all operations to enhance safety.

Procedures for Managing SARTIME

Cancelling SARTIME

  • Importance: Cancelling SARTIME is vital in preventing false SAR alerts. It should be part of the post-flight checklist for pilots.
  • Cancellation Methods: Can be performed through NAIPS, by phone using the CENSAR hotline, or via radio for remote locations.
  • Timely Communication: Failure to cancel within the due time can lead to resource-intensive SAR operations (Episode 25: Flight Plans and SARTIME - CASA).

Dealing with Issues

  • Remote Locations: Plan alternative cancellation methods if phone service is unreliable, using radio communications as a backup strategy.
  • Process Improvement: Setting reminders for SARTIME cancellation is advisable to avoid accidental operations.

Consequences of Neglecting SARTIME

Failure to manage SARTIME can result in unnecessary SAR operations, diverting resources from real emergencies. Though there are no penalties for accidental activations, immediate communication to rectify oversights is essential (SARTIMES and SARWATCHES – Flight Safety Australia).

Recommendations for Pilots

  • Integrate SARTIME handling within pre-flight and post-flight checklists.
  • Ensure understanding of flight notification forms like the ICAO Flight Notification form.
  • Regular consultation of resources such as the Visual Flight Rules Guide (VFRG) by CASA is encouraged for informed planning and execution of safe flight operations (SARTIME - Airservices).

Additional Resources