The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) conducted a simulated air crash rescue operation at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu (AIIA), to evaluate its preparedness for air crash and other emergency situations.
The exercise, which took place within the airfield, involved the participation of several key agencies that are crucial in responding to emergencies. These agencies included the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Ports Health, FAAN’s Fire Service Department, Aviation Security, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, the National Emergency Management Agency, and the Civil Defence.
Southeast Airport Regional Manager, Hillary Umunna, commented on the purpose of the simulation, stating that it was conducted in compliance with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority’s (NCAA) regulations on safety and emergency response in Nigerian airports.
“The exercise allows us to assess the response times of medical officers, the participation and proficiency of all responders, and their ability to perform their duties effectively,” Umunna said. “It also helps us evaluate the coordination among the response teams at the accident scene.”
Hope Oyekanmi, Head of Safety at AIIA, highlighted that such exercises are held every two years, with partial drills occurring in the interim. She expressed gratitude to the officers for their swift response but acknowledged that there is always room for improvement.
The simulation was a crucial step in ensuring that all relevant agencies are well-prepared and coordinated in the event of a real emergency, reinforcing the commitment to safety and efficiency at Nigerian airports.
