Chapter 10 - Airport Emergency Planning, Part I

Abstract

Airport Emergency Planning, Part I, provides insight for establishing the required Part 139 Airport Emergency Plan (AEP). Certified commercial airports must have an AEP addressing the safety and emergency response needs of at least the largest commercial aircraft known to potentially serve the airport. The terrorist attacks on 9/11, along with past natural disasters, prompted the federal government to improve its emergency management and response capabilities. Through a series of executive orders and congressional acts, the National Response Framework was developed, promoting a system of comprehensive emergency management. Additionally, the Incident Command System (ICS) was formalized and established under the National Incident Management System (NIMS). Airport operators are required to be NIMS trained and able to implement NIMS effectively in order to manage a mass casualty incident or event. The AEP is expected to address aircraft crashes and a variety of other safety- and emergency-related incidents that may occur in an airport. The priorities of airport emergency response are to ensure life safety and scene stability, followed by protection of property and the environment and then the restoration of aviation activities. Field practice examples for managing the AEP are also included.