Understanding SARTIME and Emergency Documentation

Learning Outcomes

• Explain the term SARTIME and how it might be used.
• State the document that contains emergency procedures.

Introduction

In Australian aviation, understanding and adhering to emergency procedures and search and rescue (SAR) protocols is essential for ensuring flight safety. Two key components in this area are the term SARTIME and the official documentation that outlines emergency procedures.

SARTIME: Definition and Usage

Definition

SARTIME stands for “Search and Rescue Time.” It is the predefined time by which a pilot expects to report a flight safely concluded. If such a report is not received by the nominated SARTIME, SAR actions are initiated to ensure the safety of the flight. SARTIME serves as a safeguard, particularly for operations outside controlled airspace or solo flights, allowing for timely SAR operations if needed.

Importance

Filing a SARTIME is a critical aspect of flight safety management, helping to prevent emergencies from going unnoticed. It ensures that search and rescue measures can be activated promptly if communication is lost or a check-in is missed.

Usage and Management

Notification and Nomination Methods

• Online: Notification and automatic confirmation of SARTIME can be done using the National Aeronautical Information Processing System (NAIPS).
• By Phone: Pilots can call Airservices Australia at 1800 814 931 to file a SARTIME.
• By Radio: Via VHF or HF, pilots may use in-flight communication to report “SARTIME details.”

Types of Notifications

• SARTIME Flight Notification: Used for flights operating entirely outside controlled airspace.
• Flight Note: Contains flight specifics and is given to a responsible person.
• ICAO Flight Notification: Required for VFR flights in controlled airspace, excluding Class E.

Cancellation Procedures

VFR Flights

• Controlled Aerodrome: Cancel via the CENSAR system, not directly with the control tower.
• Non-Controlled Aerodrome: Call CENSAR to cancel.

IFR Flights

• Controlled Aerodrome: SARWATCH ends automatically with ATC notifications.
• Non-Controlled Aerodrome: The pilot is responsible for canceling via phone, radio, or online.

Recommendations

• Pilots should incorporate SARTIME cancellation into their shutdown procedures and set reminders. Failure to cancel can lead to extensive, unnecessary SAR operations.

Additional Considerations

• Pre-arrange alternative methods to confirm SARTIME cancellation in areas with unreliable network coverage. Have a contact, like a flight school or friend, aware of your plans for added safety.

Conclusion

Efficient management of SARTIME is vital for minimizing risk and enabling swift SAR responses in Australian aviation. Pilots should diligently organize, communicate, and cancel their SARTIME notifications to ensure safety.

Sources:

• Episode 25: Flight plans and SARTIME - Civil Aviation Safety Authority
• SARTIME - Airservices Australia

Emergency Procedures Document

Authoritative Sources: Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA)

CASA provides comprehensive documentation on emergency procedures within Australian aviation, which details the types of emergencies, communication protocols, and coordination of different agencies involved in emergency responses.

Key Documents and Guidelines

• Accidents and Emergencies:

  • Covers engine failures, systems failures, and emergency responses.
  • Guidelines for declaring emergencies using “Mayday” or “Pan” calls.
  • Accidents and emergencies - CASA

• Mercy Flights:

  • Specific procedures for rule deviations during medical emergencies.
  • Legal framework for emergency operations.
  • Mercy fights and operating in an emergency - CASA

• Cabin Safety Bulletin 25:

  • Provides guidance on emergency evacuations and occupant safety.
  • Cabin safety bulletin 25 Emergency evacuation and occupant survivability - CASA

Roles and Coordination

Key agencies such as Airservices (aviation firefighting), AMSA (search and rescue), and ATSB (accident investigations) work in tandem with CASA to ensure a structured and effective response to aviation emergencies.

Conclusion

The official documentation by CASA ensures that pilots and aviation professionals are well-prepared for emergencies, providing clear guidelines and coordinating roles for a structured response in Australian aviation.

Source: Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA)