Bhubaneswar, June 30: Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA), Bhubaneswar, successfully conducted the Full-Scale Emergency Exercise 2025 today. The drill was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of the airport’s emergency response plan, assess preparedness, and ensure seamless coordination among multiple agencies in the event of a major incident.
The exercise simulated a critical scenario involving an incoming A321 commercial aircraft carrying 222 passengers. During its landing approach, the aircraft reported a fire warning on Engine No. 1 and crash-landed within the airport premises. The crash triggered multiple fires and scattered casualties within a 500-meter radius, creating a high-stakes situation for the emergency teams.
A swift and well-coordinated response followed from all key stakeholders, including Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF), Odisha Fire Service, CISF, State Police, NDRF, airlines, ground handling agencies, hospitals, ambulance services, the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), and the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
Over 200 personnel actively participated in the live drill. The sound of sirens from crash fire tenders and ambulances, volunteers acting as injured passengers on stretchers, and temporary medical tents for first aid added to the realism and training value of the exercise.
Airport Director Prasanna Pradhan stated, “Today’s exercise demonstrated the strength of our partnerships and the high level of readiness across all emergency response teams. Full-scale emergency exercises are conducted every two years, with a tabletop exercise held in the interim to continually refine and update our Airport Emergency Plan (AEP). Insights, suggestions, and lessons learned from today’s drill will be incorporated into our preparedness strategy.”
He further emphasized the airport’s ongoing commitment to safety: “As an airport operator, we are dedicated to the safety of our passengers and staff. Exercises like these ensure that we remain vigilant and capable of responding swiftly and effectively during crises.”
Regulatory observers and aviation safety officials were present to monitor the exercise and provide valuable feedback to support continuous improvement.
Biju Patnaik International Airport extended its gratitude to all participating agencies, volunteers, and staff for their professionalism and commitment in making the emergency exercise a resounding success.
