04/30/2026
Penticton & District Search and Rescue (PENSAR) has successfully completed initial training in a newly approved operational capability that will drastically change their operational response capability going forward: night helicopter operations utilizing Night Vision Imaging Systems (NVIS).
This capability represents a significant advancement for volunteer search and rescue in Canada. While NVIS technology has been used in specialized aviation sectors, its formal integration into volunteer SAR operations is recent and requires unique training and operational protocols. The addition of NVIS enables crews to safely conduct aerial search, transport, and rescue operations in low- and no-light conditions, dramatically extending operational effectiveness beyond daylight hours.
“The introduction of night helicopter operations using NVIS is a huge step forward for PENSAR. Being able to locate, access, and transport lost and injured subjects in conditions that previously would have significantly delayed a PENSAR response will be of great benefit to those requiring assistance in the backcountry. This technology will also significantly decrease the number of volunteers we will have to expose to difficult travel conditions while performing searches and rescues at night.”
- Ron Berlie, VP Operations, PENSAR
Topflight Elite Training and Charter had previously utilized NVIS to support PENSAR. While out on an unrelated night training exercise, PENSAR was concurrently searching for a lost hiker in the White Lake area. Because of their willingness to collaborate and access to this technology, the hiker was located rapidly – within five minutes – instead of what could have been an hours long, overnight search.
Working in partnership with Topflight Elite Training and Charter, PENSAR is now among a small number of volunteer SAR teams in the country to have this capability.
“What makes this partnership with PENSAR unique is that we’re not just training the capability, we’re part of delivering it operationally. Through Topflight Elite Training and Charter, we’ll be the air carrier supporting NVIS PENSAR missions, so there’s a direct line between how we train and how it’s executed in the field.
We’re building procedures, crew coordination, and risk management alongside the team in the exact environment they operate in. Penticton gives us the terrain and complexity to do that properly, and together we’re establishing a capability that’s not just new, but immediately usable when it matters.”
- Ian Jassman, Topflight Elite Training and Charter
The initial training phase included classroom instruction, night vision goggle familiarization, and aerial search exercises focused on detecting key visual indicators such as reflective materials, artificial light sources, and mobile device use. Team members also conducted night-time hover entry and exit training to build foundational operational competence.
Due to the complexity and safety requirements associated with NVIS operations, the first cohort of trainees consisted of members with advanced experience in helicopter-based rescue. NVIS operations require specialized equipment, regulatory compliance, and extensive training for both aircrew and ground personnel.
“We are extremely fortunate to be partnered with the Topflight Elite Training and Charter, a world-leading NVIS training organization that trains agencies from around the globe. Their expertise and professionalism have been critical in building this capability to the standard required for the work that we do.”
- Norman Cole, President, PENSAR
This milestone reflects years of collaboration and development at the provincial level, including Emergency Management and Climate Readiness BC, the British Columbia Search and Rescue Association Helicopter Operations Working Group, North Shore Rescue, Talon Helicopters, and partner agencies. The introduction of NVIS capability is expected to be a transformative step in enhancing night-time SAR response and has been described as a “game-changer” by PENSAR members.
“This is not only a milestone for PENSAR, but a significant advancement in volunteer SAR capability across the province. It will decrease response times, improve subject outcomes, and enhance the safety of our volunteer professional SAR members.
We identified the potential of night helicopter operations several years ago. Achieving this capability has required sustained effort to secure approvals, develop provincial operating guidelines, and ensure it could be delivered safely. I want to recognize the work of Ron, the province, and partner agencies who have spent the past five years navigating the regulatory, training, and operational challenges to make this a reality.”
- Norman Cole, President, PENSAR
Penticton & District Search and Rescue is a volunteer organization comprised of ~50 volunteer professionals that respond 24/7 to emergencies. They respond to RCMP, municipal fire, BC Wildfire, municipal and regional government, BC Coroner, and BC EHS requests for support in searches, rescues, recoveries, and support evacuations during civil emergencies.
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