Hikers lost in Kosciuszko national park rescued within five hours by AI drone

Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) successfully rescued two hikers within five hours using an AI-powered drone on Tuesday evening, marking a significant first for the agency. The men, both in their 20s, had strayed from a designated walking track in Kosciuszko National Park and were reported missing at 7pm after failing to reach their rendezvous point. The drone employed thermal imaging and a mobile phone's red light to pinpoint their location near Jindabyne. This operation highlights the growing role of artificial intelligence in emergency response and search and rescue missions, potentially improving efficiency and safety for lost individuals in remote areas. The successful deployment of this technology by FRNSW could pave the way for wider adoption in similar situations across Australia.