Against a backdrop of the Mqabba fireworks, a sudden, fierce blaze erupted on a runway at 7.30pm yesterday, close to a parked aeroplane with some 50 passengers inside.
Some are not cooperating with the rescuers, so as to make the scenario more real
Within minutes three fire engines had sped to the scene to extinguish the flames: but there was no cause for alarm because although the fire was real, the scenario was simulated.
More than 200 people took part in an emergency drill at the during a major aircraft accident training exercise which tested emergency response. The mock setting saw a ‘collision’ on runway 2/3 between an airliner and a light aircraft.
More than 50 volunteers were brought in to play the part of passengers on board an old training aeroplane and briefed on how to act. “Some are not cooperating with the rescuers, so as to make the scenario more real,” said Reuben Sciberras, Head of Communications at MIA.
Most had make-up on: gruesome bruises in the abdomen, feet or face. Some were shirtless and had to brave the nippy autumn air.
Fire tenders sprayed foam and other material onto the aircraft and then rescuers wearing masks and bearing stretchers ventured inside the plane to help out the passengers trapped in the ‘smoke-filled’ cabin.
Mr Sciberras explained that the exercise was being closely assessed by a number of Transport representatives.
“They need to ensure that all the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s regulations are being adhered to, not just the timing but also the procedures,” he said.
There were no flights scheduled while the exercise was going on, however in case of a real life emergency, the airport would be closed. “All flights would be redirected to the closest airport, probably ,” said Mr Sciberras.
This drill, held once every two years, involved the participation of the Civil Protection Department, the police and the AFM, St John’s Ambulance as well as representatives from Air Malta and Emirates airlines.
Medical teams from Mater Dei set up a field hospital.
Everyone seamlessly followed the routine and behaved as they would in the event of an actual accident – except for members of the media, who of course would in real emergencies be kept as far away as possible from the accident scene.