(1) The aviation division of the department is responsible for the conduct and management of all aerial search and rescue within the state. This includes search and rescue efforts involving aircraft and airships. The division is also responsible for search and rescue activities involving electronic emergency signaling devices such as emergency locater transmitters (ELT's) and emergency position indicating radio beacons (EPIRB's).

(2) An act or omission by any person registered with the aviation division of the department for the purpose of engaging in aerial search and rescue activities, while engaged in such activities, shall not impose any liability on the department or the person for civil damages resulting from the act or omission. However, the immunity provided under this subsection shall not apply to an act or omission that constitutes gross negligence or willful or wanton misconduct. For the purpose of this subsection, "aerial search and rescue activities" includes, but is not limited to, training and training-related activities, but does not include appropriate search and rescue activities conducted under the authority of RCW 38.52.400.