Home   About Us   Forum   Main Site Channel Islands Air Search Operations commenced in 1980 with a Piper Aztec aircraft being available on a part time basis. In 1994 the Aztec was replaced with the present Islander aircraft which provides 24 hour cover, 365 days a year from its base at Guernsey airport, flying in virtually all weather. The aircraft is equipped with state of the art electronics, including thermal imaging, search radar, radio direction finding and a computerised satellite navigation system. The service is manned by 26 volunteers and the aircraft carries a crew of five. Covering over 4,000 square miles of sea, "Lions’ Pride" may be tasked by the Coastguards of the Channel Islands, France and Britain. In addition it will operate in support of the Police Forces or Fire Services of the Channel Islands, where there exists a risk to life. Supported entirely by voluntary donations "Air Search" is a Pan-Channel Island charity..