Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands (1 December, 2014) Cayman Brac’s Emergency Responders tested their skills on Tuesday, 25 November during an exercise organized by the Cayman Islands Airports Authority (CIAA).

The exercise called “Rescue Me” was staged at the Charles Kirkconnell International Airport (CKIA) and involved the landing of a mock Learjet 35 flown by “Aerospace Airlines” with 12 people on board. The aircraft landed hard on its tail first and subsequently crashed, spun around, and came to rest on the side of the runway.

Commenting on the exercise, CIAA’s senior manager, safety management systems and the chairman of the Airport Emergency Planning Committee Andrew McLaughlin, said “This was a very good opportunity for our emergency responders to test their capabilities. In addition, the airline responded in stellar fashion, quickly positioning airline staff at all possible locations to assist uninjured victims along with their family and friends during this very stressful type of incident.”

Mr. McLaughlin also thanked all of the agencies involved and said, “In the coming weeks each agency will review their observations of what occurred that day and formulate new plans and procedures to refine their response and ensure the best possible care for victims at the accident site, as well as their families and friends eagerly awaiting their safe return.” He added, “I am very proud of everyone who played a role in this important exercise and I feel confident that in a real emergency we will be ready to do everything in our power to assist those in need. “

The Airport Emergency Planning Committee comprises of representatives from CIAA, Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting Services, Royal Cayman Islands Police Service, Health Services Authority and the Sisters Islands Emergency Committee (SIEC).

PHOTO CAPTION:

1. Cayman Brac fire officers respond to the mock plane crash
2. Emergency workers assist the “plane crash victims”
3. Emergency responders work together to ensure the plane crash victims are safe.