An artificial intelligence-powered drone has successfully located two missing hikers in Kosciuszko National Park, New South Wales, marking the first time the Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) drone's AI detection system has been used in a rescue operation.
Rescue Details
The two men, both in their 20s, veered off a walking track on Tuesday and were found approximately half a kilometre away from the path. The drone, equipped with thermal imaging and AI capabilities, located them within five hours of their disappearance.
According to FRNSW, the drone's AI system autonomously identified the heat signatures of the hikers, enabling rapid deployment of ground crews to their exact location. The rescue was completed without incident.
Technology in Action
This is the first operational use of the FRNSW drone's AI detection system for a missing persons search. The drone can cover large areas quickly and detect body heat even in dense bushland, significantly reducing search times compared to traditional methods.
“The AI technology allowed us to pinpoint the hikers’ location with remarkable speed and accuracy,” said a FRNSW spokesperson. “This capability will be invaluable for future search and rescue missions in challenging terrain.”
Broader Implications
The successful rescue highlights the growing role of AI and drones in emergency services. Similar technologies are being trialled by other agencies across Australia for bushfire monitoring, flood assessment, and search operations.
Kosciuszko National Park, a popular hiking destination, has seen multiple incidents of lost walkers in recent years. Authorities urge hikers to stay on marked trails and carry emergency communication devices.
