Mackay Airport
News

Airport News

Exercise puts airport on alert

Posted on Wednesday, 13 July 2005 @ 4:17:01 PM

Emergency services went on full alert in Mackay today after a terrorist hijacked an aircraft threatening to kill all on board.

Students from Mackay State High School acted as hostages during Exercise Airex 2005 at Mackay Airport today

The scenario was part of Exercise Airex 2005. Mackay Airport operations manager Ray Waters said the exercise stretched emergency services, Mackay Port Authority, Airservices and airline personnel to the limit. “It was a very interesting exercise that tested our emergency operational protocols,” Mr Waters said. “We hold these events to put our staff under pressure and to test the response reactions of various agencies such police, ambulance and fire and rescue. We have learnt a great deal from this exercise and this information will help us improve our procedures that are contained in the aerodrome emergency plan and the Mackay Airport Security Program.” Mr Waters said more than 70 people were involved in the exercise, including students from Mackay High School. A major debrief will be held tomorrow.

Check your arrivals & departures

Book your flight online

Jetstar

(new window)

Virgin Blue

(new window)

Qantas

(new window)

Qantas, Virgin Blue & Jetstar are the servicing airlines for Mackay Airport. To book your flight online simply click on the link above to go to the airlines site.