plane ‘crash’ tests crews

A mock plane crash involving 18 volunteers at Port Hedland International Airport put emergency services to the test while giving them a chance to roll out procedures as part of the real time exercise.

Codenamed Exercise Black Kite the drill on September 21 included representatives from St John Ambulance, South Hedland police and the Department of Fire and Rescue.

The volunteers who signed up to take part in the exercise acted as injured passengers.

Exercise director Brett Karran said the training happens every two years and is a way for the airport staff to stay prepared if an emergency arises.

The volunteers had special effect make-up applied to show a variety of injuries, including broken bones, and head injuries.

PHIA general manager Rod Evans said the exercise allowed the airport to test all aspects of their emergency response procedure.

“Exercise Black Kite allows the airport operations team to work closely with the community’s emergency services network in an airport environment,” he said.