News Summary
Columbia Metropolitan Airport will hold a planned emergency training exercise on Thursday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Passengers using the airport can expect to see emergency vehicles and smoke, but commercial flights will not be affected. This large-scale exercise aims to enhance emergency preparedness in light of current wildfire conditions and will take place in designated areas of the airport. For any inquiries, passengers can contact the airport’s public safety division.
Columbia Prepares for Emergency Training Exercise at Local Airport
Hey, Columbia! We have some important news for those who might be flying in and out of the Columbia Metropolitan Airport this week. If you find yourself at the airport on Thursday, you may come across some unusual sights. Picture this: smoke, fire, and a flurry of emergency vehicles buzzing around the runway. But don’t fret! This is all part of a planned emergency training exercise, not an indication of any ongoing wildfires in the area.
What to Expect During the Training
Mark your calendars! The emergency training exercise is scheduled for Thursday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.. During this time, airport personnel will conduct a series of staged emergency scenarios to better prepare for any potential incidents in the future. It’s all about being ready for anything that might happen, and practice makes perfect!
No Need to Worry
You’re probably wondering if this exercise will affect your travels. Good news! Airport officials assure everyone that commercial flights will not be impacted. So feel free to book that flight! The main terminal will remain off-limits during the training, but the rest of the airport continues to function as usual. Safety is the airport’s top priority, and the exercise is designed to ensure that everyone is ready to jump into action when needed.
Where Will the Action Happen?
Curious about where all this activity will take place? The training will specifically happen in designated areas of the airport. These include the South Carolina Aeronautics hangar, the airport’s West Cargo apron, and locations along Metropolitan Drive off Enterprise Parkway. So, don’t be surprised if you see crews going through their drills there!
Why Is This Training So Important?
It’s important to highlight that this large-scale exercise is part of CAE’s AirSafe program, which aims to strengthen the airport’s emergency response. The exercise is conducted every three years, helping ensure that all staff are well-prepared for a variety of situations. Columbia Metropolitan Airport’s Interim President, CEO, and CFO has emphasized the critical role that this training plays in enhancing emergency preparedness, especially under current wildfire conditions.
Staying Safe During Wildfire Season
While we’re on the topic of fires, it’s worth noting that the airport is proceeding with this training despite ongoing wildfires in the Pee Dee area. Just to reassure everyone, the airport is strictly adhering to all burning ban directives from Gov. Henry McMaster and the South Carolina Forestry Commission. Your safety is paramount, and precautions are being taken seriously!
Need More Information?
If you’re itching to learn more about the emergency training exercise or if you have any questions about your travel plans, you can reach out to the airport’s public safety division at 803-822-5025. They’re always ready to help and provide clarity concerning airport operations.
Interesting Stats
Just to wrap up on a high note, did you know that over 1.3 million passengers traveled through Columbia Metropolitan Airport in 2024? The airport offers daily flights to 11 major airports in 10 cities. That’s quite a bustling hub right in our backyard!
So if you see something unusual around the airport this Thursday, just remember – it’s all part of making sure you and everyone else can travel safely and smoothly. Happy travels, Columbia!
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