Full-scale mock drill at Kangra airport

In a significant move to bolster aviation safety and disaster response capabilities, the Kangra airport conducted a full-scale emergency mock exercise simulating a high-risk aviation incident. The exercise rigorously tested the Airport Emergency Plan (AEP) through a coordinated multi-agency response.

The scenario centreed around a Q400 aircraft (call sign VTABC) flying from Delhi to Gaggal with 71 passengers onboard. The aircraft reported a critical engine failure on its starboard side just 15 minutes before its scheduled landing. With a limited fuel endurance of 1 hour and 30 minutes, the pilot requested a priority landing, prompting Air Traffic Control (ATC) to declare a full emergency.

As the aircraft attempted its approach on Runway 33, it crash-landed near the Manjhi River (Grid E-7), short of the airfield. Immediately, the ATC activated the AEP, setting emergency protocols into motion. Airport Crash Fire Tenders (CFTs) rushed to the simulated crash site, initiating firefighting and rescue operations. Injured passengers and crew were quickly evacuated, triaged, and shifted to nearby hospitals for further care.

The drill saw participation from a wide network of agencies, including Airport Fire Services, Airport Security Unit, airline staff and volunteers, district fire teams, Himachal Pradesh Police, SDRF, local hospitals (Fortis and City Care), Aapda Mitra volunteers, and villagers from nearby areas, all playing vital roles as responders.

The operation was monitored by a team of senior officials: SDM Kangra Ishant Jaswal, Airport Director Dhirendra Singh, DSP Kangra Ankit Sharma, Airport Fire In-Charge Roshan Lal, Tehsildar Kangra and Disaster Management Officer Robin.

This joint exercise not only demonstrated high levels of coordination but also reaffirmed the region’s readiness and collective resolve to handle real-time aviation emergencies effectively.

Himachal Tribune