The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) will conduct an emergency response exercise at Hilo International Airport on Thursday, September 18, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
This full-scale exercise is required every three years by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to assess emergency response procedures. The drill will simulate a collision between two commercial airliners and test interagency communication, response plans, and actions of responders.
Personnel from various agencies will participate in the exercise. These include airport staff, Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighters, airlines, FAA, Transportation Security Administration, Hawai‘i Police Department, Hawai‘i Fire Department, Red Cross, Hawai‘i County Civil Defense, Hawai‘i Air National Guard, Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency, Hilo Benioff Medical Center, Youth Challenge Academy and American Medical Response. Local volunteers will act as passengers in distress during the scenario.
“All appropriate safety precautions will be in place throughout the exercise and all flight operations will continue as normal.”
The public is advised that there may be increased presence of emergency vehicles and security personnel in the area during the event. People are asked not to interfere with or attempt to assist with the training exercise. For further information or questions about the event, individuals can contact the HDOT Public Affairs Office at 808-587-2160.
