Issue: emergency response

This includes:

  • no ARFF
  • reliant on state emergency services
  • response time in remote locations
  • understanding of aviation risks (Ballistic Recovery Systems (BRS).

We discussed the emergency response times at non-controlled aerodromes. They rely on state emergency services which has a longer response time. Emergency services experience delays entering airfields when there are no Aerodrome Reporting Officers (ARO) on duty. This increased the already long response times.

We also discussed new technology and the dangers they present in an emergency. BRS deployment after an accident, during the recovery stage, could result in injury, fatality or damage to property.

What can operators do?

Operators can meet with local emergency services to highlight information such as:

  • aerodrome hours
  • best point of contacts
  • different access options.

Share important safety information about hazards that may happen during an incident, such as BRS installed on aircraft.

Develop better emergency response plans between operators, airports, and State Emergency Services to improve responses.

What are we doing and delivered?

We have information and publications to help increase awareness during emergencies. Some include:

Published date: 30 September 2024
Online version available at: https://www.casa.gov.au//operations-safety-and-travel/safety-management-systems/sector-safety-risk-profiles/non-controlled-aerodromes-ssrp/issue-emergency-response
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