Northeast Philadelphia Airport (PNE) recently participated in an emergency exercise aimed at improving teamwork among key partners, including Leonardo Helicopters US (LHD) and the Philadelphia Fire Department (PFD). This activity was organized by LHD and emphasized the importance of joint training efforts among airport tenants and local emergency services.  

LHD has been a tenant at PNE for 40 years, delivering advanced technology for aerospace, defense, and security. As part of a global company, Leonardo collaborates with governments and international organizations on strategic programs and innovative technological solutions for key projects worldwide.

In Philadelphia, tabletop exercises focused on aviation accident response help teams practice procedures and improve interoperability with local partners. The training efforts at Leonardo Company and its subsidiary, global high-tech AgustaWestland Philadelphia Corporation (AWPC),  have been driven by two main factors: the FAA-mandated implementation of a Safety Management System (SMS), which requires Emergency Response Planning (ERP) for certain certifications, and the safety requirements associated with experimental aviation. Two-thirds of AWPC's operations in Philadelphia involve these activities. Industry standards require that Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) services should be present for every startup and shutdown of operations. AWPC's Environmental Health and Safety team contracts ARFF services through Pro-Tec.

Since June 2023, Leonardo’s ARFF has been operational, providing emergency medical technician (EMT) response for real-world events and supporting customer activities and experimental flight operations. Firefighters operate the OSHKOSH ARFF truck, reaching any point at PNE within two minutes. This service enhances safety for Leonardo’s operations and supports other tenants at the airport. “By incorporating joint training and simulations into our routine, we improve our emergency response capabilities and ensure the safety of all airport stakeholders,” said Tori Brown, Communications Manager at Leonardo Helicopters.

The emergency training exercise that involved PNE featured a simulated scenario involving a Quest helicopter with a fire on board followed by a crash landing. The fire truck stationed at the Leonardo hangar operated by its ARFF services provider Pro-Tec, was the first response vehicle.  

Following the initial response from Pro-Tec, PFD units were also mobilized. PNE benefits from the collaboration of multiple firehouses—primarily Engine 22, Engine 46, and Ladder 31. This ensures a faster response and improved emergency capabilities at the airport while allowing for a more dynamic and flexible response to incidents that can vary significantly in scale and nature.

PNE holds its own annual emergency training focused on ground emergencies. However, participating in Leonardo's exercise is important for meeting regulatory requirements and experimental aviation operations. “A key part of the exercise was the coordination between the airport and its tenants regarding emergency protocols,” said PNE Airport Operations Manager John Brewer. “While some tenants have specific emergency plans for their facilities, they still rely on the airport’s established guidelines and the resources of the Philadelphia Fire Department. This interconnected approach enhances overall operations and ensures that everyone is well-prepared to handle emergencies effectively.”