02/2016 - Possible missing diver, Jersey

20/05/2016

The Channel Islands Air Search aircraft, call sign Air Search One, was called out by Jersey Coastguard at 12.36 p.m. on 20th May 2016 to search for possible lost divers after the discovery of a diver's float with a bag of scallops attached, floating one mile south of St. Brelade's Bay, Jersey.

The aircraft took off at 1.10 p.m. and proceeded to the south west tip of Jersey whereupon a search pattern was established covering the south coast and heading out to sea southwards.

An Air Search crew member said "There was obvious concern that one or more divers were lost following the discovery.  The Service was tasked with searching an area from La Corbiere to the south east corner of the Island and continuing southwards out to sea.  Weather conditions were very good with excellent visibility and a calm sea.  Jersey Coastguard were making enquiries amongst known divers and after approximately 30 minutes it was established that the equipment had been lost some days previously but no persons were at risk.  The Service was therefore stood down and returned to Guernsey."

The aircraft landed at Guernsey at 1.50 p.m. having been airborne for 40 minutes and searched an area of approximately 15 square miles.