Enhancing Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR) Operations Using UAVBased Flight Control Systems: Opportunities, and Challenges

Abstract

The number of maritime accidents has been generally in decline in recent years, but maritime incidents still pose an important threat to human life, with optimization of search strategies and efficient use of resources hence being a high priority. In this regard, this study employed a mixed-methods approach by carrying out a Python-based simulation in the modeling of UAV-supported SAR missions and semistructured interviews with professionals in the areas of maritime SAR and experts in drone technology.

This study aims to explore how UAVs may enhance the effectiveness of maritime SAR by employing both quantitative simulations and qualitative insights from expert viewpoints. The research investigates the potential of UAVs in optimizing search patterns, detecting persons in water (PIW), and delivering life-saving equipment under various conditions.

Besides the quantitative analysis through a Python-based simulation modeled UAV-supported SAR missions, semi-structured interviews provided practical insights into operational challenges. Many practitioners recognized the potential of UAVs for faster observations and interventions, but they expressed concerns about their vulnerability to bad weather conditions, regulatory restrictions, and also limited payload capacities.

The interviewees mentioned the greater strength and weather resistance given to drones, improved sensorial advances like thermal imaging, Lidar, and further action in terms of algorithms within autonomous navigation. Again, participants stressed that availability is related to specialized training for this type of SAR team with high-performance UAV systems. These results have proved that UAVs indeed provide a quantifiable advantage under maritime SAR situations, precisely in terms of speed and area covered, real-time situational awareness. The significant hurdles will be overstepped before UAVs can be fully integrated into normal SAR operations. Better long-enduring drones, up-to-date sensors for further detection, refined flight stabilizing controls, and easier regulatory frameworkswhen that matures with the technology, UAVs will find their rightful place as invaluable tools bound to go a long distance in increasing the chances of survival during maritime disasters.