Punta Cana Airport conducts large-scale emergency response and evaluation drill as part of its commitment to operational safety
Punta Cana International Airport carried out its large-scale general emergency drill this Tuesday, an exercise conducted as part of the requirements established in the Dominican Aeronautical Regulations and aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of its Airport Emergency Plan, as well as its response and coordination capacity in the event of a possible aircraft incident or accident.
The exercise took place from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., simulating an air disaster scenario, and included the active participation of the entire airport community, including the airport’s internal emergency response teams and the relevant aviation and emergency authorities.
During the drill, officials evaluated response times, mobilization, and coordination among emergency units such as airport firefighters, ambulances, and members of the Emergency Operations Center (COE), the Specialized Airport and Civil Aviation Security Corps (CESAC), as well as joint efforts with supporting entities such as the Dominican Institute of Civil Aviation (IDAC), local fire departments, and other involved agencies.
This exercise is part of a practice that Punta Cana International Airport has conducted every two years for more than 40 years, reaffirming its commitment to continuously strengthening operational safety, emergency preparedness, and the protection of passengers, employees, and users.
“The regular implementation of these exercises allows us to test our protocols and continue strengthening the response and coordination capacity of the entire airport community in the face of any eventuality. In addition, these drills give us the opportunity to identify areas for improvement in procedures, resources, and facilities — aspects that often only become evident when plans are evaluated in a practical, high-demand environment like this one,” said Giovanni Rainieri, Airside Operations Director at Punta Cana International Airport.
As part of this comprehensive effort, the airport is also holding its Operational Safety and Environmental Week, featuring a schedule of activities aimed at promoting a culture of prevention, safety, and sustainability within the airport community. The program includes talks on hurricane season preparedness, interactive panels, and discussion forums with airport authorities and representatives from the national aviation sector.
Through initiatives like these, Punta Cana International Airport continues strengthening its commitment to operational safety and protection, promoting a culture of prevention and continuous preparedness aligned with international aviation industry best practices.