CALGARY – The Calgary Airport Authority is partnering with Air Canada and local first responders for a full-scale emergency management exercise that will take place at YYC Calgary International Airport on September 14.

‘Exercise Aurora’ is a simulated exercise that provides The Authority and its partners with a chance to practice emergency response procedures in a controlled way. Mock scenarios strengthen the capability across all agencies to respond to emergency incidents using a common approach.

“Safety is our top priority. YYC regularly invests in large-scale practice exercises to ensure that our teams have the expertise and experience to act in the unlikely event of a real emergency,” said Chris Miles, Calgary Airport Authority, VP Operations & Infrastructure. “It is a crucial part of preserving the safety and efficiency of our airport.”

Dozens of participants from different agencies are joining, including Calgary Fire Department, Calgary Police Service, and EMS. The simulation will see first responders attending to an aircraft with volunteers playing injured passengers. Volunteer actors playing the role of distressed passengers, family, and friends will also test customer-facing teams in the terminal.

The exercise will be staged at a distance from active operations and will not cause any delays for guests or affect flight activity throughout the day.

Transport Canada requires airports to conduct full-scale exercises based on scenarios that relate to a major aircraft accident every two years. This is the first full-scale exercise at YYC since 2019 as an exemption was in place in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID-19.

Please note: We are unable to accommodate on-site media coverage of this exercise but keep an eye on our social channels for photos and updates. Follow us on Twitter @FlyYYC.

ABOUT THE CALGARY AIRPORT AUTHORITY

The Calgary Airport Authority is a not-for-profit organization incorporated under the Regional Airports Authorities Act of Alberta and is responsible for the management, operation and development of YYC Calgary International Airport and YBW Springbank Airport. Our airports are important economic generators for the city, region and province, supporting thousands of jobs and generating billions in GDP through associated economic activity. The Authority was also recognized as one of Alberta’s Top Employers for 2021.

Media Contact:
The Calgary Airport Authority
403 735 5899
media@yyc.com