Devonport Airport Successfully Tests Emergency Preparedness

Devonport Airport’s Aerodrome Emergency Plan (AEP) was put to the test this week in a simulated emergency exercise, testing of the AEP is a requirement under federal legislation. Testing the AEP provides an opportunity to learn and further develop staff and processes to ensure continuous improvement of the AEP, making Devonport Airport a safer and more prepared Aerodrome.

TasPorts Chief Executive Officer, Anthony Donald said testing of the AEP is required yearly to ensure the Aerodrome continues to meet emergency planning obligations and to build proficiency in executing the plan.

“These exercises are a vital component of aviation safety, ensuring that airport staff and emergency services are prepared to respond effectively to potential incidents,” he said.

"The aim of aerodrome emergency planning is to minimise the effects of an emergency, particularly in respect to saving lives and maintaining aircraft operations.”

Devonport Airport General Manager Rob Phillips said the four main objectives of the exercise included:

• Testing the Command-and-Control arrangements for an aerodrome emergency between the incident site, Forward Command Post, Emergency Operations Centre and Air Traffic Control.
• Testing the coordination between organisations, including resourcing and communications.
• Confirming the inter-operability of the Emergency Operations Centre incident management and communication systems. 
• Enhancing familiarity of emergency services staff with the airport facilities, Emergency Operations Centre location, access points, meeting points and on-site security and traffic control arrangements.

Mr Phillips thanked all those involved in the exercise, including Tasmania Police, Tasmania Fire Service, Airservices Australia, Biosecurity Tasmania, Qantas and Rex Airlines, as well as volunteers from Rotary Club Devonport South East, Tasmania.

"We are grateful for the support of all the agencies involved in this exercise," Mr. Phillips said.

"Their participation helps ensure that we are well-prepared to handle any emergency that may arise."