A real-time detecting and updating search strategy was presented for UAV area target search in uncertain environment, and an optimal configuration method of airborne photoelectric load parameters was proposed. An area target search model based on a two-dimensional discrete grid was established, and a probability map was used to describe the real-time acquisition and update of target information. A search objective function was built with the introducing of uncertainty index, revisiting of grid with target and controlling of grid detection times. The search route planning method based on particle swarm optimization was established. Through the estimation and analysis of average detection time and misjudgement probability of the task area, the optimal configuration strategy of airborne photoelectric load parameters was proposed. The Monte Carlo method was used to verify the effectiveness of the area target search method and the effect of photoelectric load parameter configuration on search efficiency and misjudgement probability.