A simulation of Coast Guard air search and rescue operations to evaluate certain station location policies and schemes

Abstract

This thesis presents a simulation of air operations in the Seventh Coast Guard District which is used to investigate the effect that relocation of Air Station Savannah will have on the Search and Rescue (SAR) system. Also examined is the probable effect that changes in the aircraft assignment policy will have on the SAR system. Representative annual case loads, generated by USCG headquarters for the area under study, were analyzed. The thesis indicates that, under present operating conditions, the present location of the air station is better than any of the others investigated. The simulation analysis also indicates that, by separating one helicopter from the present station and relocating it elsewhere, a reduction in average response time of less than 45 minutes could be obtained. The incorporation of a new helicopter, the HH-65A, in the system was also investigated.