The BVI Airports Authority (BVIAA) conducted a simulation exercise at the Captain Auguste George International Airport on Anegada to test and evaluate the response and recovery capability of the BVIAA to an accident.

According to Managing Director for BVIAA, Mr. Denniston Fraser, the objectives of the exercise was to test the Rescue and Fire Fighting Services (RFFS) procedures contained in the Airport’s Emergency Plan, to assess the response time of the RFFS, and interagency communication network and procedures, to test the presence and structure of the Incident Command System and to evaluate the reliability and effectiveness of the Airport Security System. A number of agencies were involved including the Department of Disaster Management, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force and the BVI Health Services Authority.

“There were many lessons learnt from this year’s exercise but the most important lesson learnt is that a good response depends on the ability and knowledge of personnel to communicate effectively to the agencies involved in the exercises. Additionally, resources to aid with an accident are imperative to a successful rescue and recovery of passengers on the island of Anegada.,” Mr. Coy Levons, the Director of Operations reported.

The simulation exercise scenario involved a Cessna 402-c destined to San Juan Puerto Rico from the Auguste George International Airport with nine passengers on board. During the take off phase, the aircraft encountered problems and crashed off the end of runway 27.

As a result of the exercise, a number of recommendations were made which would be given consideration by the Authority.

The BVIAA would like to extend special appreciation to all volunteers, evaluators, external agencies, and the entire staff at the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport for their efforts and contribution to the success of the exercise.

As a contracting state for the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the United Kingdom’s Government is obligated to ensure that all of its Overseas Territories are fully compliant with the provision of the ICAO’s approved standards. Under this law the BVIAA is mandated to conduct a full-scale emergency exercise bi-annually.