All Chino Valley Fire District firefighters underwent aircraft rescue training exercises over the course of three-days this month at Chino Airport using a Gulfstream II aircraft, manufactured in 1971 and donated by Chino-based Threshold Aviation Group.
The training focused on radio communication between fire personnel and Chino Airport Air Traffic Control Tower, fire suppression, forcible entry, and patient rescue/care.
This valuable training gave our personnel the opportunity to work through the various challenges they would face if an airplane crash-landed at Chino Airport, caught fire, and rendered the occupants unconscious. It was the first time all fire personnel have had the opportunity to have hands-on training for an airplane crash at Chino Airport, using a real plane. The 40-year-old plane is considered to be economically obsolete, despite being fully operational.
“It is a great way to repurpose the plane, and we’re pleased to be part of this valuable training,” said Mark DiLullo, Chief Executive Officer of TAG.
Although each drill varied in tactics, all included the rescue of two manikins using forcible entry tools and rescue techniques. Firefighters also used specialized foam and water to simulate fire suppression. Personnel gained access to the interior of the plane via window emergency exits located over the plane’s left wing and by sawing through the plane’s fuselage.
“With the generous efforts provided by the Chino Airport and Threshold Aviation Group, it was possible for our organization to experience purposeful and realistic training,” said Training Captain Joe DeSoto.
These type of training opportunities are a great benefit to our fire personnel because they provide our firefighters with realistic, but safe conditions in which to enhance their skills.
Chino Airport is a fully-operational airport with up to 20,000 aircraft operations per month.