When a PIC observes distress, he shall, unless he is unable or the circumstances otherwise require, do which of the following?

• A. Keep in sight of the craft in distress until such time as his presence is no longer necessary
• B. All of the above
• C. Act as instructed by the rescue co-ordination centre or the air traffic services unit
• D. Report to the rescue co-ordination centre or the air traffic services as much information as possible

Answer: (B)

When you notice distress, you’re expected to actively support the SAR effort, as long as it’s safe to do so. Keeping the distressed aircraft in sight helps maintain situational awareness and provides a real-time reference for any follow-up actions or instructions. Following what the rescue coordination centre or the air traffic services unit asks you to do ensures your actions fit into the broader SAR plan and don’t conflict with other assets or procedures. Providing as much information as you can to RCC or ATS speeds up the response and improves the chances of a successful rescue.

All of these actions can be pursued together, and you should do them if possible. If circumstances make any part unsafe or impractical, you prioritize what you can safely accomplish while still coordinating with the centres.