AFOA TOPICS & NEWS
CAP3203 : Battery Thermal Runaway in eVTOL Aircraft: Risks, Mitigations, and Firefighting Strategies
AFOA Chairpersons 2025 Update
Chairperson’s Annual Membership Update
Dear AFOA Members,
As Chairperson of the Airport Fire Officers Association, I’m pleased to share this year’s annual update with you all. It has been a fantastic year of progress, collaboration, and strengthening of our RFFS community. Thank you for being a valued part of it.
Annual Conference Success – Dublin
In April, we proudly hosted a joint annual conference in Dublin with the Aviation Rescue & Fire Fighting Working Group. The event was a tremendous success, bringing together professionals from across the sector to share learning, exchange insights, network, and strengthen partnerships.
AGM & Networking Seminar – Fire Service College
This November, we were delighted to hold our first supply chain and manufacturer sponsored networking seminar and annual general meeting at the Fire Service College. This free to attend event was made possible thanks to sponsorship from the Fire Service College.
We were pleased to welcome contributions from:
• Neil Gray & Graeme Day (CAA) – regulatory and sector update
• Tommy Murney – progress update on the Hydrogen Challenge Programme
• Karl Scammell (AAIB) – insights and sector engagement
Honouring Achievements and Dedication
We continue to sponsor the Firefighter Initial Top Recruit Silver Axe Awards, in memory of Andy Kipps, Crew Manager, Manchester Airport RFFS, celebrating the achievements of the next generation of aviation firefighters.
Warm congratulations to Gerry Keogh and Tommy Murney, who received Long Service Awards for their outstanding commitment to the RFFS and AFOA. Both are true role models within our community.
Welcoming New Committee Members
The AFOA Committee is delighted to welcome three new committee members:
• Cath Rae – Edinburgh Airport RFFS
• Martin Broom – Edinburgh Airport RFFS
• Johnathon Stephens – Land’s End Airport
We are grateful to them for stepping forward and look forward to the valuable contributions they will bring to the association.
New Partnerships & Ongoing Collaborations
We are thrilled to announce new partnerships with JOIFF, the Firefighters Charity, Fire Aid, AFSA, and Women in the Fire Service, strengthening collaboration across the wider fire sector. Our work continues with the National Fire Chiefs Council, Airports UK, and JESIP, ensuring our members’ views are represented at national level.
Supporting Diversity and Inclusion
We are proud to support Mary Anne Jennings and the Supporting Women into the Fire Service (SWIFS) initiative, which continues to deliver exceptional work promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion across fire services.
Membership Expansion – Category 1–2 Airports
We are expanding access to AFOA by increasing membership opportunities for Category 1–2 airports and volunteer RFFS units. This reflects our commitment to inclusivity and ensures all RFFS organisations—large or small—benefit from the support and collaboration our association provides.
Save the Date – 20th to 22nd April 2026, Annual Conference
We look forward to welcoming all our members to our next Annual Conference, returning to the Hilton Gatwick Airport on 20th April 2026.
Looking ahead, the 2026 conference theme will focus on RFFS training, bringing together professionals from across the sector to share learning, exchange insights, network, and strengthen partnerships.
Sponsorship packages, exhibitor opportunities, and the full event programme will be released soon, please stay tuned, and keep the dates free!
Backing Vital Mental Health Work
We continue to proudly support the Invisible Risk Programme and acknowledge the tremendous efforts of John Lord, whose work is making a meaningful difference to mental health within our sector.
Supporting the Firefighters Charity
Thanks to your generosity during our Dublin conference, you raised a fantastic sum for the Firefighters Charity, which we were honoured to present at our AGM in November.
Thank You
To all our members, thank you for your continued support. Your involvement strengthens our network and helps shape the future of the Airport Rescue & Fire Fighting Service.
The Airport Fire Officers Association wishes all our members a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
AFOA Attending the AFSA Conference
Waine Weaver, Dr Lee Rowley and Matt Bourner, joined by Mary Anna-Jennings of SWIFS attended the AFSA conference. AFOA, looking to forge closer links with many industry partners joined a host of guests and attendees at the conference and later for the gala dinner. Mary also joined the committee, gaining a valuable opportunity to talk about the work she is so passionate about with SWIFS.
NFCC Position Statement on Fire Risks in Energy Technology
The NFCC has published its position statement on fire risks in energy technology, urging the government to strengthen regulation and oversight.
AFOA AGM / Networking Seminar
The AFOA AGM / Networking seminar is about to get underway at the Fire Service College, with a full agenda and a tour of the facilities lined up for delegates later in the day.
Mark Hynes Head of Civil Aviation training at FSC
Mark Hynes, providing an overview of the Aviation training available at the Fire Service College.
From Firefighter Initial / conversion courses, Incident Command training to the ROC training program.
Looking to the future for hydrogen risks and providing the appropriate training to deal with those.
Mark also spoke about the Aviation Firefighter Apprenticeship Scheme they now offer.
CAA Update from Neil Gray Principal Inspector
Neil Gray provided the seminar with an update from the CAA. He spoke about alternative fuels and the development of training that will be required to deal with any potential fires and incidents inviolving them. He reiterated the ICAO discussion paper that has been submitted on the scope of the RFFS Response, in light of several recent airport incidents.
Vertiports and EVTOL aircraft was mentioned as several company’s move towards operational aircraft. Neil spoke of the need for standardisation of training provision and a revision of CAP699, including the National Occupational Standards for EV and Hydrogen response being developed.
Neil reminded the seminar that access to RFFS specific information from the CAA was available at CAA.co.uk
Hydrogen Challenge Program - Tommy Murney
Tommy Murney, currently working on behalf of the CAA on the Hydrogen Challenge Group, gave an overview of the work currently being undertaken in developing hydrogen aircraft and ground units and the legislation changes required to safely introduce the equipment.
Guidance and regulatory documents are also being developed to assist aerodromes and RFFS alike in supporting the transition and compliance with these systems.
AFOA/ARFF Conference 2025
Steve Milton Blue Light Training Update
Steve Milton from ERDT delivered an informative update on blue light response driving, focusing on driver competency and airport fire service vehicle incidents. He emphasized the importance of ensuring high standards of driving within the airport fire service and referenced key regulatory frameworks, including ICAO standards, CAP699, NFPA, and EASA standards.
Steve highlighted the need for comprehensive guidance documents to assess all elements of driver competency, noting that current standards require a detailed and structured approach to evaluating and maintaining these skills. His talk underscored the critical role of driver competency in ensuring safe and effective emergency response operations, providing delegates with valuable insights into improving training and adherence to international standards.
Matt Bourner - The road to Recovery
Matt Bourner, a member of the airport fire service at Manchester Airport, shared his remarkable journey of recovery and resilience after losing part of his leg in a motorcycle accident. In 2019, Matt was struck by a car while riding to work, resulting in severe injuries that led to the amputation of his leg below the knee. Despite the challenges, Matt delivered his speech with humor and positivity, inspiring delegates with his story.
He recounted the obstacles he faced during his recovery, including dark days and being told by a doctor that he wouldn’t walk for two years. Determined to prove them wrong, Matt walked out of the limb center just 12 weeks later. He spent significant time at a specialist rehabilitation center in Preston, setting personal challenges along the way, such as climbing Mount Snowdon in 2021—a feat that inspired many fellow walkers.
Matt shared key takeaways from his experience, including the importance of always challenging yourself, appreciating the small things, and believing that everything is possible. His positive outlook on life has been a driving force in his recovery. His greatest achievement, however, is returning to operational duties at Manchester Airport, a testament to his determination and resilience.
Matt’s talk was a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of perseverance, leaving delegates inspired and motivated to face their own challenges head-on.
Rob Dipper - Gatwick Airport Car Park Incident
Rob Dipper, Watch Manager at Gatwick Airport, shared an insightful case study on a car park fire at the airport’s North Terminal Long Stay Car Park. He began by providing a detailed overview of Gatwick Airport’s fire service, including its crew structure, vehicles, risk areas, and the types and frequency of incidents they handle annually.
He then described the incident, which involved a Tesla car that was fully alight upon the crew’s arrival. The fire spread to adjacent vehicles, eventually involving nine cars in total. The crew deployed a CAFS (Compressed Air Foam System) to tackle the fire, but the situation became more complex as a running fuel fire from an adjacent car spread to another Tesla. The restricted space within the car park added to the challenges of managing the incident.
Key considerations during the response included the potential for a lithium battery fire, containment of media runoff, access to the fire scene, the possibility of an act of aggression, and the logistics of removing damaged vehicles from the car park. Despite these complexities, the incident was resolved successfully.
Rob highlighted key learning points, such as the missed opportunity to use the M/Ethane framework for structured communication, the importance of vehicle positioning and access in confined spaces, and the effective collaboration between airport fire crews and local authority crews. He emphasized the need for improved CAFS supply and operational planning for similar incidents in the future.
The case study provided valuable insights into managing complex fires in challenging environments, offering practical lessons for delegates to apply in their own operations.
.
Nancy Tonkin - Managing PFAS in Firefighting Foams
John Lord - Invisible Risk the next steps
John Lord delivered a heartfelt and passionate speech on the “Invisible Risk” of UFP (ultrafine particle) contaminants, shedding light on the profound impact this issue has had on individuals and the aviation firefighting community. He shared insights from the conferences he has organised, which have significantly advanced awareness and understanding of these risks, and praised the RFFS within the aviation industry for their proactive efforts in mitigating these dangers and sharing their expertise.
John highlighted the importance of SNOMED codes in medical records, expressing concern over the lack of awareness among GPs and his ongoing efforts, including meetings with his MP, to address this gap. He celebrated the success of the Invisible Risk Awards, which this year expanded to include categories for RFFS, Local Authorities, Airside Operations, and International contributions, with Biggin Hill proudly taking home an award.
He also discussed the growing data on females in the fire service and the importance of raising awareness, noting that Danny Cotton has joined his committee to further this cause. Drawing from his and his wife’s personal experiences with cancer, John emphasised the importance of early screening and its benefits for recovery and return to work. He also shared his commitment to developing practical solutions, such as snoods for airside teams and sports bras for female firefighters, to help mitigate risks.
John Lord’s speech was a powerful call to action, driven by personal passion and a dedication to fostering partnerships, raising awareness, and creating tangible solutions to protect those in the aviation and firefighting industries.
Gail Rowntree - Emergency Crisis Management
Neil Gray CAA Principle Inspector
Neil Gray, the CAA Principal Inspector, delivered an insightful presentation to the delegates at the AFOA/ARFF Conference, providing a comprehensive update on key industry developments and challenges. He began by discussing the expanding remit of the CAA in aviation, highlighting its growing responsibilities in areas such as aviation fuels and the unique emergency response requirements they pose.
Neil touched on the rise of RPAS (Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems) and the readiness of space launches from Shetland, marking a new chapter in UK aviation. He also addressed the integration of AI in the aviation industry, emphasizing the need for checks and balances to ensure its safe and effective use. The ongoing UK Airspace Modernisation project was another focal point, with particular attention on accommodating Heathrow’s third runway.
He introduced the STEM project, aimed at inspiring the next generation to join the aviation industry, and provided updates on the Hydrogen Sandbox project, which has several active working groups. Gray also highlighted the Garmin Emergency Autoland System, a groundbreaking technology for smaller aircraft that can autonomously land in emergencies, while noting areas requiring further clarification, such as flight restriction zones and busy airspace.
Gray discussed ICAO workstreams exploring whether the remit of RFFS should expand to include protecting airport infrastructure and buildings, which would require updates to standards, training, and equipment. He concluded by emphasizing the importance of Information Security Management in mitigating cyber threats, noting that this will soon become enforceable as it progresses through Parliament.
His talk provided delegates with a forward-looking perspective on the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of aviation safety and emergency response.
Alisdair Couper - Terberg
Alisdair Couper, Managing Director of TERBERG, delivered an impactful speech at the AFOA/ARFF Conference, focusing on the importance of strong and reliable partnerships between manufacturers and the aviation firefighting community. He emphasised the need for robust collaborations with companies that have a proven track record and secure supply chains, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, dependable equipment to support critical emergency response operations.
He also spoke passionately about the pressing issue of firefighter contaminants, highlighting the ongoing work being done in partnership with John Lord to address this challenge. He shared encouraging updates on the progress made in reducing exposure to harmful substances, while acknowledging that there is still much work to be done to fully safeguard firefighter health and safety.
His speech underscored TERBERG’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement in support of aviation firefighting professionals, leaving attendees inspired to push forward in tackling industry challenges.
Waine Weaver - AFOA Chair
The AFOA/ARFF Conference is a leading event focused on advancing aviation firefighting, emergency response, and safety standards. This year’s gathering brings together industry professionals, regulators, and innovators to discuss critical developments and foster collaboration across the aviation sector.
The conference begins with a compelling welcome address by Waine Weaver, Chair of the Airport Fire Officers Association (AFOA). Waine reflects on significant aviation incidents, including the Heathrow power outage, underscoring the importance of resilience and preparedness in the industry. He also delves into key topics shaping the future of aviation, such as the adoption of sustainable fuels, the role of regulators, and the importance of robust supply chain partnerships.
He highlights AFOA’s collaborative efforts with organizations such as NFSS, CAA, NFCC, SWIFS, and ARFF, emphasising the value of partnerships in driving progress. He also announces a new partnership with JOIFF, aimed at promoting good working practices and staying ahead of regulatory updates. His address sets the stage for a dynamic conference focused on innovation, collaboration, and the future of aviation safety.
Attendees can expect insightful sessions and networking opportunities designed to enhance their expertise and contribute to the evolution of aviation firefighting and emergency response.
The AFOA / ARFF Conference 2025
The AFOA/ARFF Conference 2025 kicked off today with an engaging and dynamic start, offering attendees a range of interactive workshops designed to enhance skills, knowledge, and awareness in the field of aviation firefighting and emergency response.
Participants had the opportunity to immerse themselves in hands-on activities, including ERDT Driving, which focused on advanced emergency response driving techniques to improve safety and efficiency during critical situations. The FLAIM Virtual Reality workshop provided a cutting-edge training experience, allowing attendees to simulate real-life firefighting scenarios in a controlled virtual environment, enhancing decision-making and operational readiness. Additionally, the Invisible Risk Contaminants Awareness session shed light on the often-overlooked hazards posed by invisible contaminants, equipping participants with the tools and knowledge to identify and mitigate these risks effectively.
The opening day set the tone for a conference filled with innovation, collaboration, and professional growth, bringing together experts and practitioners to share insights and advance the standards of aviation firefighting and emergency response.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them
Radio Frequency Conversions, applicable to the RFFS to be completed by 1st January 2026
Newcastle Airport Firefighter Initial Course Graduation
The Airport Fire Officers Association were delighted to sponsor the Silver Axe Award for the Firefighter Initial Course at Newcastle International Training Academy.
Committee Member, Station Officer Simon Lane, attended the event and presented the award to Ryan Potts for best performing recruit.
The Airport Fire Officers Association wish all the recruits from the course the very best for their future careers.
World Mental Health Day
AFOA Supports World Mental Health Day.
World Mental Health Day takes place every year on 10 October. It’s a reminder of the importance of good mental health and the need to prioritise and invest in good mental health.
This year’s theme is ‘access to services – mental health in catastrophes and emergencies’. The theme highlights the importance of people being able to protect their mental health in times of global instability.
Taking care of your mental health as a firefighter is crucial – both for your own wellbeing and to allow you to perform your role to the best of your ability.
Being a firefighter can mean that you may witness some difficult and harrowing situations, which can take a huge toll on your mental health if not worked through and dealt with in the right way.
Don’t suffer in silence
Talk to someone – in person or on the phone, or even via message or email. Whether it’s a family member, a close friend or a colleague, it can really help. Often you’ll find that other people aren’t coping as well as you might think either – it isn’t just you!
Write it down
It can be incredibly therapeutic to get negative thoughts and anxieties out of your head and on to paper. It can also help you work through your thoughts, and think about how you can deal with a situation.
People do this in various ways – some people prefer to write regularly in a journal and others just get their thoughts out onto a piece of paper which they’ll then throw in the bin. Whichever way works best for you, try it!
Make healthy choices
We know that healthy living and getting enough sleep is sometimes difficult, especially whe n you already have a busy lifestyle But you don’t need to completely change your lifestyle right away!
Take small steps, and change one thing at a time. Try a week of swapping fizzy drinks for water, or going to bed half an hour earlier. Then build on it from there.
Eating healthily can be hugely beneficial to your mood, and getting even a small amount of extra sleep can make a huge difference to your day.
Manchester Airport RFFS - Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be part of Manchester Airport’s Fire and Rescue Service?🚒
PFAS in Firefighting Foam Restriction Proposal
AFOA Supporting Women in the Fire Service
Simon Lyon - SAFO - Liverpool John Lennon Airport
Luton Airport Car Park Incident
A car is understood to have fallen from a multi-storey car park at Luton Airport, leaving a man with what are thought to be serious injuries.
Bedfordshire Police said in a statement that emergency services were called shortly before 11am on Sunday.
Officers said the incident involved a single vehicle at a multi-storey car park at London Luton Airport, and that police, ambulance and fire crews attended the scene.
“One person has been taken to hospital with injuries which are thought to be serious,” the force added, appealing for witnesses.
Images from the airport show a damaged barrier on what appears to be the third level of a car park, and what appears to be a bumper on the ground.
London Luton Airport said in response to queries on social media that the wider airport “remains open and fully operational”.
The Airport Fire Officers Association Present the Silver Axe Award at the inital firefighters passing out ceremony at the Fire Service College.
Aviation Firefighter Initial Course 01/25 has graduated and passed out of the Fire Service College, with delegates from a diverse range of Airport Fire and Rescue Services. Special praise to Matt Neilson from Edinburgh Airport RFFS who won the Sliver Axe Award sponsored by the Airport Fire Officers Association. This award is in memory of Andy Kipps from Manchester Airport Fire Service, and was presented by AFOA Chairman Waine Weaver and Station Manager John Sulek from Manchester RFFS. We were pleased to welcome Andy’s wife Tracey and Lorraine Shott to the FSC to be part the graduation.
Well done to all the delegates and thanks to the FSC Instructors who delivered a fantastic course.
The Airport Fire Officers Association has become a member of JOIFF (The International Organisation for Industrial Emergency Services Management) to foster shared learning and collaboration across industries. This strategic partnership aims to broaden the knowledge base and professional development opportunities for members of both organisations. By aligning with JOIFF, AFOA enhances its commitment to improving safety, operational standards, and knowledge exchange within the fire and emergency response community.
Both organisations see this partnership as a milestone and will bring huge benefits to the members of both JOIFF and AFOA in forging closer ties across the sectors.
Statement from the Airport Fire Officers Association
The Airport Fire Officers Association is deeply saddened by the tragic events at Bicester Motion on Thursday evening, which claimed the lives of Firefighters Jennie Logan, aged 30, and Martyn Sadler, aged 38, as well as member of the public David Chester.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of Jennie, Martyn, and David. The loss of two dedicated firefighters who gave their lives in the line of duty, alongside a member of the community they were working to protect, is a profound tragedy that touches us all.
Jennie and Martyn’s bravery and selflessness reflect the very highest standards of our profession. We honour their service and sacrifice, and we also remember David Chester with deep respect.
Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this devastating incident.
Top Award for Teessider.
Mike Dodds has won a top award from one of the biggest companies in the world.
The 36-year-old from Ingleby Barwick, who works at the Serco International Fire Training Centre (IFTC) based at Teesside International Airport, has just picked up a Serco Impact Award – beating thousands of fellow employees from across the globe.
The honour was for his work reducing the environmental impact of the site’s water treatment systems and fuel use – all while helping train emergency crews from around the world in some of the most realistic fire scenarios.
Today 8th May 2025, we celebrate the anniversary of VE Day.
We reflect and remember those we lost and those we owe our freedom to.
AFOA / ARFF Conference 2025
The line-up for this years conference is geared towards operational response.
28-30th April 2025
The line-up for this years conference is geared towards operational response and includes the following:
– Keynote; Gail Rowntree. – Associate Professor in Aviation Crisis Management
– CAA/FAA; Industry Update from both sides of the pond
– Fire Chief From Bangalore
– Paul Ankrett – Advanced Aviation tactics & techniques overview. A fresh perspective.
– Matt Bourner – One of the first UK Aviation Firefighter who lost a leg following a motorcycle accident and his road to recovery to becoming an operational F/F following his accident.
–
– Nancy Tonkin; An overview of managing legacy fire fighting foams including PFAS and fire ground contamination.
– John Lord; Running a workshop on contaminants & cancers within the Fire Fighting industry.
– Overview & Visit to Dublin Airport Fire Station.
This remains subject to change
Exhibitors and Sponsors are reminded the final date for expressions of interest closes on January 15th
CAA and NFCC ATG call for closer links with RFFS in producing SSRI.
CAA Principle Inspector, Neil Gray has called for closer ties between Fire Services and Airport RFFS in producing Site Specific Risk Information, following the Luton Airport Car Park Fire.
Looking under the wings of airport fire service inspection - Emergency Services Times
7th Feb 2025
Airport fire services play a crucial role in ensuring safety during the rare event of an aircraft accident during take-off or landing, given the risks posed by large quantities of jet fuel. Neil Gray, one of two Principal Aerodrome Inspectors for the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), leads a team that inspects both fire services and all other aspects of aerodrome operations. This differs from inspections conducted by HMICFRS for public fire and rescue services, as CAA inspections cover a broader range of aerodrome activities. The CAA oversees 132 aerodromes in the UK, with 41 certified airports requiring dedicated fire services, and inspections are planned according to each aerodrome’s complexity and risk level.
CAA inspections are structured through an oversight planning programme, with high-risk aerodromes visited annually and others every 16 months. Unlike HMICFRS, the CAA does not publish individual inspection reports; findings contribute to an overall safety performance review. Non-compliances are addressed with varying levels of urgency, from immediate safety risks to minor observations. Training is vital due to the rarity of airport fires, and realistic exercises, including a major incident drill every two years, ensure preparedness. Although the Luton Airport car park fire highlighted the collaboration between airport and local fire services, the primary focus of airport fire teams remains aircraft incidents—though international discussions are exploring expanding their remit to cover buildings. Despite the demanding inspection schedule across the UK and its territories, the varied nature of aerodrome safety keeps the role both challenging and rewarding.
Grenfell firefighters suffering long-term health disorders
13th Jan 2025
A study conducted by the University of Central Lancashire, with support from the Fire Brigades Union (FBU), examined the health of 524 firefighters who responded to the Grenfell Tower fire. Published in the Journal of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, the research found that 26% of firefighters reported adverse health effects, with 301 health issues recorded overall. Many suffered from multiple conditions, including digestive diseases (66 cases), respiratory diseases (64), neurological disorders (22), and 11 cancer diagnoses. The study, led by Professor Anna Stec, revealed that the majority of affected firefighters had been unable to wear respiratory protection during the incident due to the severity of the fire. Exposure to toxic smoke and particulate matter far exceeded safety limits, with immediate symptoms such as choking, breathing difficulties, and vomiting experienced by many on the night.
The long-term health impacts remain uncertain, as some cancers and diseases can take years to develop. Researchers have drawn comparisons to the health consequences faced by emergency responders after 9/11, where a health monitoring programme was introduced to enable early diagnosis and treatment. However, no such regular health screening has been implemented for Grenfell firefighters or residents. The FBU’s General Secretary, Matt Wrack, has called for urgent action to introduce routine health checks across the fire service to detect illnesses early and protect firefighters’ lives. Professor Stec echoed this, highlighting the growing evidence linking firefighting to cancer and other diseases, stressing that preventative health monitoring is now essential for UK firefighters.
Aviation Awareness Seminar
AFOA attended the aviation awareness seminar, organised by John Lord. Attendees included Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service, Cheshire Fire & Rescue Service, Lancashire Fire & Rescue Service, Police, RAF, AAIB and Representatives from various Airports.
Karl Scammel (AAIB) spoke about his teams work on Aircraft Crash Investigation and explained what the expectations are as far as preservation of evidence, should the LAFRS attend a crash incident off airfield. He also gave an overview of Aircraft Hazards that are present at an incident to ensure responding personnel have an awareness and can mitigate accordingly.
Gary Lane MBE, spoke about his work and responsibilities as the Regional Liaison Officer for northern England. He spoke about different types of military aircraft and their hazards and also some of the protocols that are envoked following a crash of a military aircraft.
Simon Carnegie from Lancashire Police gave a talk on Drones and specifically counter drone operations within his remit of Lancashire police force.
Simon Lane, AFOA Committee member, spoke about AFOA, what the organisation is, what it’s aims and objectives are, the organisations and groups it works with and how it works to improve the RFFS through best practice, shared learnings and collaboration.
Steve Glennon, BAE Wharton, gave an overview of the policies and procedures the RFFS are legislated to and the complexities the RFFS can face working in both an airside and landside environment.
John Lord finished the day with a talk on airside UFP contaminants, where the hazard is found, the consequences it can lead to and importantly, what responders can do to protect themselves, this includes, correct PPE / RPE, good decontamination procedures and SNOMED codes. John explained what the codes are and how they should be used.
The day was a real success and achieved its aims of raising awareness with other responding agencies around aircraft and Airport hazards and the work the RFFS do.
AFOA would like to thank John Lord for the invitation and continues to support these events that help to raise the profile of Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting Services.
Significant Incident Report
Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service (BFRS) has published a comprehensive report detailing the major fire at London Luton Airport’s Terminal Car Park 2. The report has been published on 9 October 2024.
The significant incident report outlines the scale of the operation, which required more than 100 firefighters at its height. Crews worked tirelessly to prevent the fire from spreading to the neighbouring car park, the multi-million-pound DART travel infrastructure, and aircraft. The incident, which led to widespread disruption at the airport, was managed without any serious injuries or fatalities.
The report identifies areas for improvement, particularly in fire safety measures for multi-storey car parks. If there had been a suitable sprinkler system, it may have changed and delayed the fire spread.