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Transport and Rescue Squadron to train in Abbotsford

Residents might see increased Royal Canadian Air Force activity operating from the Abbotsford Airport this week.
AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY
Local residents might see Buffalo aircraft in the area this week while the Royal Canadian Air Force's 442 Transport and Rescue Squadron performs training exercises.

The Royal Canadian Air Force's (RCAF) 442 Transport and Rescue Squadron will conduct a search and rescue (SAR) exercise from Feb. 25 to 28 in Abbotsford and surrounding areas.

Capt. Trevor Reid, 19 Wing Comox public affairs officer, said residents can expect to see increased RCAF aircraft activity operating from the Abbotsford Airport during this period.

During the course of the exercise, members of the public might see SAR  technicians parachuting under orange canopies from Buffalo aircraft in the vicinity of the airfield.

"Residents are advised that these activities are part of carefully controlled training scenarios and, unless otherwise stated, do not constitute a response to an actual emergency," Reid said.

He said the exercise is being conducted under all applicable Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) training regulations to protect both the public and CAF members.

The squadron's ability to respond to actual SAR missions will not be impacted by the training underway in Abbotsford, Reid added.

The purpose of the exercise is to maintain 442 squadron's ability to conduct a major SAR response for Joint Rescue Coordination Centre Victoria, as well as exercise its ability to work with partner organizations like the Civil Air Search and Rescue Association (CASARA).