Multi-agency training exercise at Cardiff Airport enhances emergency response

Multi-agency training exercise at Cardiff Airport enhances emergency response

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) took part in a multi-agency training exercise at Cardiff Airport on Wednesday 4th June, alongside South Wales Police (SWP), the Welsh Ambulance Service NHS Trust (WAST), Vale of Glamorgan Council (VOG), Cardiff Airport staff, and the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART). The exercise aimed to enhance emergency response and improve coordination among partner agencies in the event of a major incident.

  

The scenario simulated a cargo plane making an emergency landing with an onboard fire and six crew members. Fire crews from Cardiff Airport Fire Station were first on scene, tackling the external fire with a foam blanket to prevent escalation.

SWFRS crews from Barry were also deployed to the scene to manage the internal fire. Eight Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus, including two members from the HART team, entered the aircraft and brought the internal fire under control using three main jets, as well as cutting and lifting equipment.

  

The simulation featured one fatality among the aircraft crew, and the remaining five casualties were successfully rescued, including one with an impalement injury, and were triaged on-scene in coordination with WAST and HART teams’ protocols.

Incident coordination was managed from the Multi-Agency Command Centre (MACC), where silver commanders and observers from all partner organisations worked together to share real-time information and ensure a unified response.

  

Ieuan Dobbs, Station Commander for SWFRS, said:

“Exercises like this are vital to ensure that all agencies are ready to respond together in the event of a real-life emergency. Today’s operation demonstrated excellent coordination, technical skill, and professionalism from all involved, while also highlighting areas for improvement.”

This joint training exercise reflects the ongoing commitment of emergency services and partner organisations across South Wales to maintain capability and enhance public safety.