November 23rd, 2020 – Approximately 100 participating personnel from multiple mutual aid and airport departments responded to Long Island MacArthur Airport Sunday, in the same manner they would had an actual aircraft accident occurred. The emergency response was part of the airport’s full-scale emergency disaster exercise. This exercise provides hands-on training for airport personnel and local emergency response organizations in the event of an aircraft accident. Airports are required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to conduct these exercises every three-years in accordance with 14 CFR Part 139. The last drill was held in 2016.
During the exercise, local volunteer fire departments, ambulance corps, members of the Suffolk County Police Department and airport personnel utilized firefighting and heavy rescue equipment, while simulating providing emergency medical service to “victims” on the airfield. Due to COVID-19 protocols, this year live victims were represented by sand bags each affixed with the victim’s medical condition so that responding personnel could triage accordingly. Automobiles were used to simulate the fuselage of the aircraft and cabin, with first responders using specialized equipment and tools to practice extracting victims.
“I’d like to thank the members of the many agencies and departments who participated in this valuable, lifesaving emergency training,” said Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter. “We are grateful for your contributions to keep the traveling public safe,” she added.
“The exercise helps to build familiarity, comradery and partnership,” said Shelley LaRose Arken, Commissioner, Long Island MacArthur Airport. “Every resource is critical when you need it. While the airport has an ongoing relationship with our mutual aid partners who support the airport throughout the year, we look forward to this triennial drill,” she added.
