EASA emergency exercise: Targeted plane crash at BER

This site is also available on: Deutsch

Today, October 8, the Berlin Brandenburg Airport Corporation, together with the fire department and the Dahme-Spreewald district, is conducting an emergency drill at BER Airport. The drill simulates an air emergency, testing the response capabilities of rescue workers and operational personnel. Flight operations will remain unaffected.

Aim of the comprehensive exercise

Today’s Ikarus emergency exercise at Berlin Brandenburg Airport is being conducted in accordance with the guidelines of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). It rehearses a scenario in which an aircraft is deliberately brought down despite technical problems. The exercise aims to effectively conduct the rescue and recovery of injured and dead passengers, as well as to test the technical assistance and cooperation of internal and external emergency services.

Exercise scenario at BER in detail

The exercise focuses on a simulated aircraft accident in which a pilot reports control problems to the control tower. An air emergency is declared, while firefighters and operational services are put on alert. In the scenario, the aircraft crashes outside the airport grounds. Emergency personnel are called in to conduct firefighting and rescue operations while providing care for passengers and their families.

Participating organizations and coordination

Approximately 200 emergency personnel and around 80 extras are participating in the exercise. The airport fire department, airport security and administration, traffic management, and terminal management are participating. The exercise offers all participants the opportunity to evaluate the efficiency of emergency processes and improve coordination within the crisis management team. The Federal Police and the Dahme-Spreewald district are also involved.

Scheduled exercises for increased safety according to EASA specifications

Regular emergency drills are a prerequisite for commercial airports certified according to EASA specifications. Such activities are intended to ensure that airports are optimally prepared for all eventualities. The involvement of various partners and emergency personnel adds a realistic dimension to the drill, which can be crucial for smooth operations in an emergency.

With BER Airport, Flughafengesellschaft Berlin Brandenburg GmbH operates one of Europe‘s most important transport hubs. Its goal is to provide comfort and safety for air travelers. Regular emergency drills promote operational readiness and cooperation among all involved institutions to ensure optimal preparation in the event of an emergency.