If you notice plumes of smoke from what appears to be a major air accident in Regina on Tuesday morning, know in advance that it’s all staged.
In a news release Monday, Regina Airport Authority states that the YQR airport and it partners will hold a full-scale emergency exercise on Tuesday, Sept. 10 between 8 and 11 a.m. in the morning.
The public can expect to see plumes of smoke in the direction of airport, as well as actors in makeup appearing to be in distress, plus an additional presence of emergency responders.
The airport states these exercise will test the emergency response plans and capabilities of the airport and its local partners.
Regina Fire, Regina Police, Saskatchewan ERS, Canada Border Services, Public Safety Canada, NAV Canada, and others will be involved in the simulation of an aircraft accident near the main runway, as well as of an emergency at the terminal. Approximately 150 people will be involved in the simulation.
The whole event is being done in line with Transport Canada requirements. According to those, international-designated Canadian airports such as the one in Regina test their emergency response plan with a full scale exercise every two years. Regina International Airport held its last such emergency simulation two years ago.
The airport is thanking the public and travellers in advance of the event.
