Air Force Ground Rescue Team Simulates Runway Closure Response to Boost Operational Readiness

On Wednesday, the South Korean Air Force 1st Fighter Wing conducted runway closure response training at its base to enhance its ability to respond swiftly to emergency runway situations. Runway closure measures are issued in emergencies, such as aircraft veering off the runway or emergency landings. Extended runway closure times can disrupt air operations and increase the risk of secondary or tertiary accidents, necessitating rapid and precise action.

The exercise simulated an aircraft veering off the runway due to a malfunctioning flight control system. Upon receiving the emergency alert, the control tower mobilized about 40 ground rescue team members, including firefighters, explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) specialists, and crane operators.

Upon arrival at the scene, the ground rescue team, under the command of the on-site commander, executed swift response measures. Firefighters rescued the pilot and extinguished a simulated fire. EOD personnel proceeded with aircraft disarmament to eliminate potential risks. The training concluded with crane operators towing the damaged aircraft to a safe location.

Colonel Hwang Seong Seop, the base defense commander, remarked, “We will continue conducting realistic training to minimize disruptions to air operations and maintain a state of perfect operational readiness.”