Nadi International Airport Mock Crash Exercise

Nadi International Airport successfully conducted its full-scale aircraft emergency exercise to test the airport’s emergency plans and preparedness that also involved a multitude of airport stakeholders on Wednesday (Nov 13).

Fiji Airports Chief Executive Officer, Mesake Nawari said “We undertake this significant full-scale drill biennially, engaging all stakeholders and the purpose of orchestrating this real-time simulated mock exercise is two-fold: firstly, to assess the effectiveness of our emergency response procedures and the readiness of our personnel in swiftly mitigating the impact of real emergencies.

“And secondly, to prioritise the preservation of lives and property. It's imperative that we achieve these goals while ensuring no disruption to flight schedules.

“I extend my gratitude to all internal and external stakeholders for making this possible. Such exercises provide opportunities for testing our capabilities, learning, and enhancing our crisis preparedness.”

Mr Nawari said a comprehensive debrief and evaluation of the mock exercise to capture key llearnings, recommendations and areas for improvements from stakeholders and observers.

“These insights will be used to refine and further enhance emergency response protocols, communication frameworks, and collaboration among stakeholders, further reinforcing the Airport's commitment to safety and readiness.

“Today’s mock exercise underscores Fiji Airport’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and emergency preparedness as mandated by the International Civil Aviation Organisation and Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF) regulations.

“The airport emergency exercise is a mandatory requirement,” Mr Nawari said.

Fiji Airports’ Rescue and Fire Fighting Services (ARFFS) conducts annual reviews and tabletop exercises in conjunction with stakeholders to test the effectiveness of the airport’s emergency plan should anything ever happen in real time.

Similar mock exercises are also conducted in the other airports that Fiji Airports manages.