Mangaluru: Mangaluru International Airport has formally commissioned two new crash fire tenders (CFTs), strengthening the airport’s emergency response capabilities. The newly inducted vehicles, manufactured by Rosenbauer in Austria, mark a significant upgrade over the older 2009-make CFTs.
Each of the new CFTs carries 12,500 litres of water and 1,500 litres of foam, compared to 10,000 litres of water and 1,300 litres of foam in the previous models. The battery-operated vehicles feature an auto-ejector system capable of discharging water up to 90 metres at full capacity, improving operational efficiency while reducing diesel consumption. Designed to carry four crew members, the vehicles can reach a top speed of 120 km per hour, ensuring rapid response to emergencies.
Hands-on training for ARFF team
The Aerodrome Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) team at the airport underwent extensive hands-on training provided by the service providers to operate the new CFTs effectively. With the addition of these vehicles, the ARFF team now operates a fleet comprising:
- Four crash fire tenders
- Two rapid intervention vehicles
- One mobile command post
- Three ambulances
The expansion of the fleet ensures that the airport is well-equipped to manage emergencies and maintain Category 7 requirements for handling critical situations.
Enhanced emergency readiness
The introduction of the new crash fire tenders significantly boosts the airport’s fire and rescue capabilities, enabling faster and more effective response to incidents involving aircraft or other emergencies on the airfield. The upgraded capacity and efficiency of the CFTs are expected to enhance overall safety standards at Mangaluru International Airport, providing greater confidence to passengers, airlines, and airport personnel.
Conclusion
With these new crash fire tenders, Mangaluru International Airport demonstrates its commitment to aviation safety and operational preparedness. The investment in modern firefighting technology ensures that the airport is equipped to respond swiftly and efficiently to emergencies, strengthening its role as a safe and secure hub in the region.