Tonga's emergency services are practicing their response to the scenario of an aircraft crash at Fua'amotu International Airport.

An Airport Emergency Exercise involved a joint agency response, in the aftermath of an aircraft emergency was held on October 16, led by Tonga Police supported by key partners

The objectives tested Emergency Response of each agency, including the Command Post/Forward Command coordination, the operation of the Emergency Operation Centre, the setting up of a Passengers Holding Area/Reconciliation, the capability of Vaiola Hospital to respond to an emergency, and the handling of passengers’ families.

Police National Commander and Acting Deputy Police Commissioner ‘Atunaisa Taumoepeau said they faced unique challenges and key agencies needed to work together to build their emergency response in a timely manner.

“We not only identified some of the weaknesses that needed addressing, but we also emphasized that preparation, communication is the key and they must have the right knowledge, experience and equipment.”

The exercise helped to maintain Tonga's capability to respond quickly and professionally in a coordinated manner and make sure that rescuers return to their families by making good operational decisions, he said.

The exercise is held every two-years with key partners including; His Majesty’s Armed Forces, Ministry of Health, Tonga Airports Limited, Tonga Fire and Emergency Services, Civil Aviation, Air Terminal Services, Border Control Agencies, National Emergency Management Office, Palu Aviation and Tonga Red Cross, guided by an Airport Emergency and Supporting Agencies Emergency Response Plan.