In preparation for real-time emergencies and disasters at the Paro International Airport, a full-scale emergency exercise was carried out recently. According to officials, such exercise helps identify potential areas of improvement. The Paro International Airport is considered one of the world’s most dangerous airports.
During the exercise scenario, an Airbus A320 carrying 160 passengers and four crew members is set to land at the airport.
Moments before landing, the aircraft encounters technical issues, resulting in the aircraft veering off the runway and skidding onto the adjacent grass with a part of the plane on fire.
According to the plan, the emergency response team was supposed to reach the site within three minutes, which they did.
Officials said that the exercise will help minimise casualties and improve coordination during real emergencies.
“Over 1,000 employees are working for 26 agencies at the airport. So, in case of any emergencies, people will panic and face difficulties if we do not conduct an airport emergency plan. This manual will direct every employee about their roles and responsibilities in any case of emergencies,” said Karma Wangchuk, Director General of the Department of Air Transport.
“What is see is a huge focus on safety, a huge commitment and it’s really a testament, and a credit to the government here and agencies of how they have responded to this. You must realise that something could happen here just as well as it could happen in any other country. However, the travelling public and people of Bhutan should know that you have the best response team who are now very aware and capable,” said Peter Mahon, the trainer.
Every day, the two airlines and a helicopter service operate about 20 flights from the Paro International Airport.
Namgay Wangchuk, Paro
Edited by Tshering Zam
