VIDEO: The Tucson Airport Authority conducted a full-scale emergency response exercise at Tucson International Airport on Wednesday, Feb. 25. The exercise occurs every three years and is required by the FAA.
“We like to say we are ready every day, so while this is a requirement, we’re always training,” said TAA President and CEO Danette Bewley. “We are always interacting with the mutual aid partners, so if and when an event could or does happen, we will be prepared.”
For the exercise, a mock airplane was set on fire, and smoke canisters were set off to simulate a realistic emergency situation. After the fire was put out, volunteers role-played as passengers, and first responders practiced making rescues and care decisions. “They do a triage to see who needs help, who did not survive, and then what level of care they need,” said Bewley.
In addition to first responders, the exercise involved airport personnel, mutual aid partners, and hospital partners, including Banner Health.
“It’s coordinating with the airlines, coordinating with family assistance, because the people on the planes have family and friends. They are going to come to the airport. How are we going to address those needs? It’s a very large coordinated effort,” Bewley said.
