Originally Posted by
jimf671
I do not think embedded is quite correct for what will be in place for next March. ARCC structures are expected to be separate from Coastguard MOC structures. It may seem a subtle distinction but, in spite of the branding of the aircraft, MCA Aviation is not structured within the Coastguard but under Director Maritime Operations MCA, and key management are DfT guys.
That's a fair assessment but the function in practical day to day terms will be a different dynamic despite whatever management structures are in place.
The Coastguard is a customer for SAR with no less or more priority than any of the other 1st response agencies. The ARRC's responsibility is to allocate helicopters on a case by case basis without bias and driven by the urgency of the situation at the time. I hope this ethos can be maintained post-March.