Chattogram: A full-scale fire drill titled ‘Fire Drill-2025’ was held today at Shah Amanat International Airport (SAIA), aimed at enhancing the capacity of its staff and passengers to effectively manage fire-related incidents. The exercise simulated an emergency involving a Neptune Airlines Airbus-320 flight, which carried 65 passengers and crew. The scenario involved the aircraft landing on Runway-23, veering off course, and coming to a stop 200 feet near the cargo apron, followed by a fire in the right engine that quickly engulfed the plane.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Bangladesh Civil Aviation Authorities organized the mock emergency exercise at noon. The drill included participation from various organizations, including the Bangladesh Army, Navy and Air Force, Police, Ansar, and other personnel, who demonstrated their skills in extinguishing the simulated fire, rescuing trapped individuals, and providing first aid to the injured.
An airport official explained that such fire drills are regularly conducted at the airport to ensure swift response during emergency situations. The primary objective was to practice fire extinguishing techniques and ensure the safe evacuation of passengers in the event of an aircraft accident. The exercise concluded with the simulated rescue of 40 uninjured passengers, 21 injured individuals, and four fatalities.
Nasreen Jahan, Secretary of the Civil Aviation and Tourism Ministry, attended the event as the chief guest. Emphasizing the importance of these drills, she stated that the aim was to test joint coordination and rapid response capabilities to protect people and property. She remarked, “Today’s drill was successfully completed within the stipulated time. It gives us confidence that we can face unexpected challenges through quick and effective collective action.”
Several organizations participated in the program, including the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB), Bangladesh Air Force, Navy and Army, Police, Ansar, Fire Service and Civil Defense, RAB, APBN, Combined Military Hospital, Chattogram, Airport Health Center, Maa-O-Shishu Hospital, Biman Bangladesh Airlines, Air Astra, and Novo Air. CAAB Chairman Air-Vice Marshal Md Monzur Kabir Bhiyan and SAIA Director Group Captain Sheikh Abdullah Alamgir were present, among others.