MATAR, the Qatar Company for Airports Operation and Management, recently wrapped up its sixth full-scale emergency exercise for Hamad International Airport (DOH) on January 8, 2024.
Titled ‘Emergency Exercise Oryx Kilo 2023’, this exercise demonstrated the airport’s commitment to safety and tested the effectiveness of external agencies’ response strategies.
Evaluating Preparedness
The full-scale exercise involved over 500 personnel, including volunteers from various agencies and departments. It primarily focused on evaluating the airport’s preparedness in responding to incidents.
External agencies, including Qatar Airways Group, Airline Operators Committee, and the Ministry of Defense, actively participated, emphasizing the collaborative approach to emergency management.
The cooperation extended to government agencies like Airport Customs, Ministry of Public Health, and the National Command Center, among others.
This collaborative effort aimed to assess communication processes, procedures, and methods when working with valued partners, stakeholders, and government agencies. Such comprehensive evaluations are crucial for streamlined emergency response coordination.
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Michael McMillan, Senior Vice President Operations & Facilities Management at MATAR, emphasized, “Our dedication to operational excellence, the safety and security of our passengers and employees is of utmost importance.”
He highlighted the significance of these full-scale exercises in constantly testing and evaluating operations, aligning with the industry’s evolving demands.
Testing Scenarios: Nighttime Aircraft Emergency
The exercise scenario, set at night, simulated an aircraft undercarriage collapsing upon landing, leading to the aircraft slipping off the runway and resulting in a fuel tank leak and fire.
This incident tested the airport’s emergency response in firefighting, search and rescue, triaging, medical assistance, and humanitarian support for the air accident victims.
Conducting these emergency exercises aligns with MATAR’s commitment to comply with the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization’s regulations.
These exercises ensure that the Airport Management Systems and Emergency Preparedness meet the stringent standards of the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority Aerodrome Licensing.
Hamad International Airport
Hamad International Airport stands out as a global hub designed to exceed the expectations of travelers.
The single expansive terminal integrates contemporary shopping, dining options, entertainment, and relaxation facilities, showcasing a world-class art collection from renowned artists.
Awards and Accolades
The airport’s commitment to passenger service has earned it prestigious titles, including “World’s Best Airport” for 2021 and 2022, “World’s Second-Best Airport” for 2023, and “Best Airport 15 to 20 Million Passengers.”
Notably, it secured the “World’s Best Airport for Shopping” and “Cleanest Airport in the Middle East” awards in 2023, along with “Best Airport in the Middle East” for the 9th consecutive year at the SKYTRAX World Airport Awards 2023.
Expansion and Future Vision
Hamad International Airport successfully completed the first phase of its expansion project, significantly increasing capacity and enhancing its multi-dimensional offerings.
The airport promises to be the ‘airport-of-the-future’ with lush greenery, contemporary retail, dining concepts, and various leisure attractions and facilities.
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