AI Drone Finds 2 Missing Hikers in 5 Hours, Marking First NSW Rescue
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Jun 27
AI Drone Finds 2 Missing Hikers in 5 Hours, Marking First NSW Rescue
3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jun 27
Summary
Two men in their 20s were found less than five hours after being reported missing in Kosciuszko National Park, about 0.5 km off the Dead Horse Gap track.
Fire and Rescue NSW said its AI-enabled drone used thermal imaging to locate them in the dark, while the hikers flashed a red phone light to attract the aircraft.
The drone then spoke to the pair through a built-in speaker and used its spotlight to guide ground rescuers to them; both had mild exposure but declined medical treatment.
Phillip Eberle said the first live rescue using the system may have cut a search that could have lasted several days, reducing risk for volunteers working overnight in alpine conditions.
FRNSW urged snowfield hikers to notify park authorities before trips and register for free Personal Locator Beacons, while officials said future drones could drop emergency supplies to stranded people.
Does high-tech rescue technology encourage riskier behavior from hikers?
Beyond just finding people, what will rescue drones be able to do next?
Who is liable when a life-saving AI drone makes a fatal mistake?
Breaking New Ground: How AI Drones Transformed the 2026 Kosciuszko Rescue and the Future of Emergency Response
Overview
On June 25, 2026, a landmark rescue took place in Kosciuszko National Park when Fire and Rescue NSW used an AI-powered drone to swiftly locate stranded hikers. The drone’s advanced technology, including a 50-megapixel wide-angle sensor and starlight night vision, allowed it to deliver clear, full-color 4K images even in complete darkness. With features like IRCut switching and near-infrared illumination, operators could capture sharp images in all lighting conditions. This successful mission showcased how AI drones can enhance search and rescue operations, making them faster and safer for both those in need and rescue teams.