Two men in their 20s were rescued within five hours after veering off a walking track in Kosciuszko national park, New South Wales, on Tuesday, thanks to an artificial intelligence-powered drone equipped with thermal imaging. The drone, operated by Fire and Rescue New South Wales (FRNSW), located the hikers about half a kilometre off the track. It was the first time the FRNSW drone’s AI detection system had been used to rescue missing people, according to authorities.
How the AI drone found the lost hikers
The drone used artificial intelligence to analyze thermal imagery and identify the hikers’ heat signatures, even in dense bushland. The system can automatically detect humans and alert operators, reducing search times significantly. The rescue was conducted in Kosciuszko national park, a popular hiking destination in New South Wales.
Impact of AI in search and rescue
This successful rescue highlights the potential of AI-powered drones in emergency response. According to FRNSW, the technology can cover large areas quickly and operate in conditions where manned aircraft might struggle. The drone’s AI system is trained to distinguish human shapes from animals or other heat sources, improving accuracy.
The hikers were found safe and were assisted back to the track. No injuries were reported. The rapid response demonstrates how AI can enhance traditional search methods, potentially saving more lives in future incidents.
