block30

I'm sort of concerned on how I make my approach to any such agencies. I imagine liability weighs more heavily on their minds as time goes on. Though in small, rural, and cash strapped areas, having an air asset could be a boon.

rickair7777

I think the USCG exercises more direct control and supervision over their auxiliary than the CAP. Probably more professional, but the best way to find out would be go talk to the nearest unit. Also aviation is not handled at the lowest local level; it's one level above that, hence more visible to the active duty supervisors.

Also USCG aux works directly with active and reserve USCG doing one of the CGs primary missions. The CAP does a mission that the USAF could care less about.

tortue

Several states have their own SAR programs (with paid employees) which are called out first and the CAP folks cant participate except when certain members have gone through proper training and such. Even then, the likelihood of CAP getting called is low. The state ran SAR programs seemed to be built by former CAP members and there appeared to be some drama between the two groups. At least, that's how the CAP folks explained it to me.

I went to visit a CAP meeting once and got turned off by it. There was an old timer contingent that were angry about folks not adhering to uniform standards. For the rest it seemed like just a way for people to chit-chat and go out drinking after the meetings. The one thing propped up as a reason to join was getting discounted time in their 182.

block30

Would this be Highway Patrol? I know my state's highway patrol has some single engine pistons and some helicopters. I don't know how often they get involved in searches, though. On a similar note, does Customs and Border Patrol do searches for lost or distressed people?

As far as the second bolded, I have heard of those types of squabbles both vertically and laterally in the chain of command in CAP, thus hampering missions. In fairness, people seem to have a natural affinity for not playing nice with others, regardless of what organization you're with. Though, this is part of my desire to be independent; if I have the time and the ability to help, I can. I don't need to beg and plead with some higher entity to do what I feel is right.

My concern with "flying solo" is not being viewed as legitimate.

block30

As an update, I checked in with a nearby Coast Guard Auxiliary unit (I guess they are called flotillas). They do have guy who owns a plane and they use it for emergency calls, but also planned flying to inspect and survey the area. As far as I know they just have one guy with one plane. I imagine having redundant assets would be good, especially given the voluntary nature of the Auxiliary. I'm going to meet with them later. The nearest active duty CG air station is a couple hour flight away. When their helicopters do make it, they have to land at the local airport and get fuel. So, they don't come up much.

I'm somewhat apprehensive for my previously mentioned desires to be non-affiliated. However, I think to do anything for them, one has to 'play the game.' I imagine the old rule "when the weight of the paperwork equals the weight of the plane, you're ready to fly" is in effect.