(a) General supervision. The department shall have general supervision over aeronautics within this state. It is empowered and directed to encourage, foster, and assist in the development of aeronautics in this state and to encourage the establishment of airports and air navigation facilities. It shall cooperate with and assist the federal government, the municipalities of this state, and other persons in the development of aeronautics and shall seek to coordinate the aeronautical activities of these bodies and persons. Municipalities are authorized to cooperate with the department in the development of aeronautics and aeronautics facilities in this state.
(b)  Aerial search. Aerial search operations for lost aircraft and airmen shall be coordinated by the department, division of aeronautics, under the direction and supervision of the chief of the Idaho office of emergency management within the military division.