ISLAMABAD: Rescue and Fire Fighting (RFF) preparedness and readiness is an important element for safe operations at any Airport. In order to keep fire staff in good trim, a Night Fire Exercise was conducted at Islamabad International Airport (IIAP). The exercise simulated an aircraft crash during night operations at the airport. Scenario was built with a Cessna, making crash landing near a taxiway. After crash, the star board side wing of aircraft caught fire, which was simulated by burning fuel in fire pit. RFF vehicles along with crew and ambulances responded the accident site within response time as per fire safety standards. DNA
A triage was also created during Rescue operation.
The exercise was conducted in coordination with Duty Air Traffic Control Officer (DATCO) Tower during the vacant slot, when no take off/landing was taking place at airport. Fire minima remained unaffected. Full strength of Rescue and Fire Fighting (RFF) staff alongwith medical, airside, vigilance, E&M staff participated in the exercise. Lighting arrangements were made by Directorate Electrical and Mechanical (E&M).
Chief Fire and Rescue Officer (CFRO) served as On Scene Commander. COO/APM also witnessed the exercise. While appreciating RFF staff, Airport Manager (COO/APM) Syed Aftab Gilani emphasized on professional excellence of fire section staff to achieve high standards of rescue and fire fighting during any untoward incident at the airport.
He highlighted that response time along with correct fire fighting techniques/skills and implementation of SOPs mattered a lot in responding to any such incident promptly and saving precious human lives. Exercise was concluded on a note of thanks to all.
