MATAR, the Qatar Company for Airports Operation and Management, has successfully completed its fourth full-scale emergency exercise at Doha International Airport.

The exercise was conducted recently with several government agencies, partners and stakeholders taking part.

The emergency exercise was arranged and orchestrated by MATAR, in compliance with the requirements established by Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). MATAR is responsible for ensuring that the Airport Management Systems and Emergency Preparedness meet the exact requirements of QCAA Aerodrome Licensing Standards.

To ensure participant safety, precautionary measures against COVID-19 were put in place, including COVID-19 PCR testing for participants 48 hours prior to the exercise and the distribution of personal protective equipment. To adapt to the latest safety guidelines, the Emergency Operations Center and the Crisis Media Center were virtually activated for the very first time, with the incident management team also participating virtually.

This year’s emergency exercise scenario tested how effectively all airport partners, stakeholders, and government agencies respond to a grounded aircraft emergency. It demonstrated the participants’ crisis readiness and effectiveness of communications, responses, procedures, and designated facilities for aircraft incident. The exercise also measured how well the different stakeholders coordinated together to ensure the best crisis management procedures are implemented.

Speaking on the successful completion of the fourth emergency exercise, Engineer Badr Mohammed Al Meer, said MATAR ensures that the protection of passengers and employees is always prioritised, while safeguarding business continuity.

He said that the success of the emergency exercise demonstrates safety preparedness, operational excellence, and the effective coordination between all stakeholders.

The last emergency exercise at Doha International Airport was held was the ‘Oryx Foxtrot 2018’. The exercise was aimed at testing the airport’s readiness, capabilities, and collaborative spirit in handling aircraft accidents such as collisions. The successful completion of the exercise demonstrated the effectiveness of the terminal’s strategic response to identify, address and monitor potential risks as part of their resilient business continuity management plan.

For more information, visit dohahamadairport.com.