Safe in the air. Confident in every rescue.
Advancing safety, collaboration and excellence for Canada's air rescue professionals.
Air Rescue in Canada
Advocating for Class D Rescue Professionals
The aerial rescue community has identified a critical need for enhanced dialogue and collaboration on current issues and mutual concerns. To address this, we have re-established the Air Rescue Association of Canada (ARAC), an initiative dedicated to fostering a unified national voice for Class D rescue professionals.
Originally formed in 1991 as the Air Rescue Association (ARA) and later operating as ARAC, the organization previously played a vital role in drafting best practices, hosting workshops, and advocating with Transport Canada, including participation on the Canadian Aviation Regulation Advisory Council (CARAC).
Our primary goals are to re-establish this advocacy for member search and rescue (SAR) teams, facilitate the development of common positions with industry partners regarding proposed government legislation, and speak with a single voice to air carriers, manufacturers, and government agencies concerning specialized helicopter rescue.
National Class D Rescue Initiative
ARAC is leading the development of a national standard for Class D rescue, building on decades of Canadian longline rescue history and close collaboration with Transport Canada, air carriers, and the Helicopter Association of Canada (HAC).
First Use of Class D Rescue
Class D rescue was pioneered in Europe and brought to North America by Parks Canada in the 1970s for mountain rescue around Banff.
Class D Rescue Adopted
Class D spread via Blackcomb Ski Patrol and Emergco Rescue Solutions, and by the original Air Rescue Association (ARA) which helped establish the regulatory framework that governs Class D Fixed Line (CDFL) operations today.
Class D and SAR
In BC, Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (EMCR) authorizes Class D operations for volunteer SAR teams — who perform more Class D rescues than any other single agency in the province.
Frequently asked Questions
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What is ARAC
Canada's national voice for professional Class D helicopter rescue teams.
What is ARAC working on
A standardized training program, a digital learning management system (DATS), standardized operating guidelines, and a quality assurance program so that Class D teams meet Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) and Commercial Air Service Standards (CASS).
Why join or partner
Standardized training and certification, access to the DATS learning platform, and advocacy with regulators, government agencies, and industry partners.
How to get involved
Membership, training, and close partnership with a designated air carrier.