Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor's donation to Al Jalila Foundation will also be used to renovate the nephrology unit at Dubai Hospital
uae19 hours ago
UAE's search and rescue aircraft navigate sea, land, and mountains with state-of-the-art equipment. The AgustaWestland AW139 serves as a key asset for the National Search and Rescue Center (NSRC).
This helicopter is renowned for its reliability and advanced technology, Captain Ali Al-Shasmi, a veteran pilot with 12 years of experience, emphasised during the HeliShow Dubai. He highlighted the aircraft's sophisticated features, including heat sensors vital for locating individuals in distress.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
“The AW139 is equipped with two engines, making it perfect for our search and rescue missions,” Al-Shasmi explained. “We use it not only for searching but also for transporting patients from accident sites to hospitals. It can navigate diverse terrains, whether over land, sea, or rugged mountains.”
The helicopter’s interior is meticulously designed to support a variety of emergency operations. On the right side, a longboard is crucial for reaching difficult locations. “We lower the longboard during rescue operations, allowing us to safely bring patients or individuals in distress onboard,” Al-Shasmi noted.
“For sea rescues, we have two methods: a double-lift operation where a rescuer descends to assist the injured, or a basket system to hoist them up.”
Medical equipment plays a vital role in the AW139’s capabilities. “We have advanced monitoring systems that track vital signs, including blood pressure and heart rate,” Al-Shasmi said. “In cases involving newborns, we use specialised incubators that provide controlled environments for safe transport between hospitals.”
The helicopter is also equipped with a thermal imaging camera, an essential tool for search missions. “This technology helps us locate missing persons by detecting heat signatures,” Al-Shasmi said. “Whether it’s a vehicle stranded in the desert or someone lost in the wilderness, the camera provides clarity in challenging conditions.”
Reflecting on the demanding nature of his work, Al-Shasmi remarked: “Every mission presents unique challenges. The fatigue and risks are always present, but the payoff is immense when we save lives.”
He recounted a particularly difficult rescue involving a young cyclist who had sustained severe injuries. “We reached the accident site amidst flying sand and hidden hazards,” he recalled. “Despite the chaos, we managed to stabilise him and transport him to the hospital.”
The emotional impact of these rescues often lingers long after the mission concludes. Al-Shasmi shared a touching moment from the Dubai Air Show, where he unexpectedly met the young survivor. “He recognised me and expressed his gratitude. Moments like that remind us why we do this work,” he said.
He noted that search and rescue operations tend to peak during the winter months due to increased outdoor activities. “During this season, we frequently respond to accidents or medical emergencies,” he explained. “People travel along familiar routes, and sometimes unforeseen incidents occur.”
The dedication of the UAE's search and rescue teams is evident in their preparation and training. Al-Shasmi emphasised the importance of being ready for any situation: “We are always on standby to respond to emergencies, day or night. Our team is trained for various scenarios to ensure we can act swiftly and effectively.”
In conclusion, Al-Shasmi highlighted the fundamental mission of their operations: “Our goal is simple but profound: to save lives. Every challenge we face becomes worthwhile when we can bring someone back to safety.” The AW139 stands as a testament to this commitment, symbolizing the resilience and hope embedded in the UAE’s search and rescue efforts.
ALSO READ:
Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor's donation to Al Jalila Foundation will also be used to renovate the nephrology unit at Dubai Hospital
uae19 hours ago
He was a towering figure in education, social service, and corporate governance
uae21 hours ago
For the first time, dates for both Grade 10 and Grade 12 board exams have been released 86 days ahead
uae21 hours ago
The outage comes on a day bitcoin surged to levels to over $98,000 and pulled other crypto stocks along with it
uae21 hours ago
After years of practicing in Al Ain, Yas Marina Circuit and Dubai Autodrome, Al Jaeedi decided to take another hobby into action
uae22 hours ago
Annual educational fees total Dh40,000, with additional Dh40,000 for therapy services, varying based on individual needs
uae22 hours ago
The exhibition, titled Eternal Letters: Qur’an Manuscripts from the Abdul Rahman Al Owais Collection, spans over 1,300 years of history
uae23 hours ago
Students have expressed their love for the milk’s taste, with many noting that their families also purchase it for home use
uae23 hours ago