What We Do

Since 1986, we're always ready

The Civil Air Search and rescue association (CASARA), is a Canada-wide volunteer aviation association dedicated to the promotion of SAR Awareness, and to the provision of air search support services to the National Search and Rescue Program. Membership is open to aircraft owners and pilots, as well as those who wish to received training as spotters and navigators. Since 1986, we have provided air search support services in downed aircraft, recently more humanitarian efforts, and have promoted Canada’s Search and Rescue Program across Canada. Our volunteers, are on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to assist those in need of search and rescue.

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CASARA is sponsored by the Department of National Defence who provide:

  1. Training in fields such as SAR Awareness, meteorology, survival awareness and search techniques and procedures.

In return, the Association:

  1. Participates in SAR Awareness and search and rescue training programs;

  2. Provides air search support services;

  3. Provides suitable aircraft;

  4. Provides highly training, safety-conscious crews to fly as pilots, navigators and spotters on Association aircraft, and as spotters on Royal Canadian Air Force aircraft as required;

  5. Provides an insurance package including personal accident and liability coverage;

  6. Provides administrative support;

  7. Provides reimbursement for aircraft operating expenses based on aircraft type and local fuel costs;

  8. Provides reimbursement for reasonable expenses that members may incur.

  9. You will benefit from participation in CASARA by receiving training from professionals that could improve your level of airmanship, and which will give you the ability to safely and effectively provide assistance to people in distress.

LEARN HOW TO BE A MEMBER