Bhubaneswar: To ensure robust emergency preparedness, the Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) in Bhubaneswar conducted the Full-Scale Emergency Exercise 2025 today, with active participation from all key stakeholders.

The drill simulated an emergency involving an arriving A321-type commercial aircraft carrying 222 passengers. The scenario involved a “fire warning light ON” alert for engine no. 1, followed by a crash landing within the airport premises. The simulated crash resulted in multiple fires and casualties scattered across a 500-meter radius.

The exercise witnessed the coordinated involvement of various emergency and support services, including Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF), Odisha Fire Service, CISF, State Police, NDRF, Airlines, Ground Handling Agencies, Hospitals, Ambulance Services, IMD, DGCA, and the Airports Authority of India.

Over 200 personnel took part in the live drill, which featured crash fire tenders, ambulances, volunteer “victims” on stretchers, and temporary first aid tents—all enhancing the realism and training value of the operation.

MOCK DRILL AT BHUBANESWAR AIRPORT

The airport’s Director Prasanna Pradhan remarked, “Today’s exercise demonstrated the strength of our partnerships and the high level of readiness among all emergency response teams. Full-scale emergency drills are conducted every two years, with a tabletop exercise in the interim year to ensure continuous preparedness and assess the effectiveness of our Airport Emergency Plan (AEP). Feedback, suggestions, and lessons from the drill will be incorporated into future planning.”

Pradhan further emphasised BPIA is committed to the safety of passengers and staff, and such exercises help maintain vigilance and readiness for any crisis.

Observers from regulatory bodies and aviation safety organisations were also present to monitor the drill and provide valuable feedback for ongoing improvement.