Section 7, Chapter 1 - Provision Of Emergency Services

Question 1

What are the responsibilities of ATC during an emergency scenario and how is emergency information managed?

Answer 1

During an emergency scenario, ATC responsibilities include:

• Communicating all relevant information to the RFFS/BIA Operations Control Centre and keeping these agencies updated.
• Liaising with BIAL ADM on factors affecting licensing criteria and future operations, such as obstructions/obstacles and available runways.
• Advising aircraft captains if RFFS cover is depleted.
• Facilitating post-incident actions, particularly in the ground movement of vehicles between the scene of the accident and the reception centres.

Emergency information management:

• The PC Ops Supervisor acts as the single point of contact for updates (Phone: 01292 694400).
• The Aerodrome Grid Reference Map is located on the VCR desk between the ADC and GMC positions.
• Local Area Maps are available in the APR Room.
• Emergency procedures are listed in AA/MANUAL/053 in the VCR and APR Room.

Question 2

What should be done with details of emergencies in terms of log book entries and forms?

Answer 2

Full details of all emergencies should be entered in the log book. Additionally:

• Details should also be entered in the Watch Log.
• The appropriate form, once completed, should be given to the Watch Manager/Deputy Watch Manager.
• The Watch Manager/Deputy Watch Manager will then forward the form to Admin for inclusion in the Airport Services Incident Database.

Question 3

When might Special Meteorological Observations be required?

Answer 3

Special Meteorological Observations may be required as per Section 1, 7.5.5.

Question 4

Who is responsible for carrying out runway inspections and where is this procedure detailed?

Answer 4

Runway inspections are carried out by the BIAL ADM, as listed in Section 3.

Question 5

What are the procedures for handling an aircraft accident within 3NM of the airport?

Answer 5

When an aircraft accident occurs or is inevitable within 3NM of the airport, ADC will:

Pass the following message to the RFFS on the CRASH Line (or via BT phone if the CRASH Line fails):
* ‘AIRCRAFT ACCIDENT’ (repeat ‘AIRCRAFT ACCIDENT’)
* “AT CRASH SQUARE”
* “GRID REFERENCE OR PLACE”
* “TYPE OF AIRCRAFT”
* If smoke or flames are reported or suspected, pass the surface wind information to the aircraft.

Pass additional information by R/T as it becomes available:
* “Persons on Board, if known, or seating capacity”
* “Operating Company, if known”

Repeat the message to the BIA Operations Control Centre using the Emergency Line.

If the accident is near the Antrim to Lisburn railway line, inform Translink (Belfast Central Signalcabin) to stop all train movements on that section.

Inform the following:
* ATC Watch Manager
* PC Ops Supervisor
* The D&D Cell (unless PC Ops Supervisor takes this action)
* Military Operations Direct Line
* NATS General Manager
* Duty Engineering Officer
* The Met. observer for a Special Met Observation

Refer to AA/MANUAL/39 (Blue Book) for detailed reporting actions.

ATC will also facilitate the movement of vehicles between the accident scene and various reception centres.

Question 6

What are the procedures for handling an aircraft accident beyond 3NM from the airport?

Answer 6

When an aircraft accident occurs beyond 3NM from the airport, the Aerodrome Controller will:

• Advise the RFFS, who may send vehicles to assist the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service, as appropriate.
• Keep the ADM informed throughout the process.
• Pass the surface wind information to the aircraft if smoke or flames are reported or suspected.
• Ensure ATC, the ADM, and the Control Centre are informed of the category of fire cover that remains available at the airport if any action is taken.