Things That Happen If Your Plane Catches Fire While at the Airport
When it comes to air travel, fire emergencies are among the rarest yet most terrifying scenarios a passenger could imagine. Whether it’s a small spark in the cargo hold or a more significant blaze involving the aircraft itself, the situation demands swift action.
Planes can fire even before flying. In fact, recently, a United Airlines plane caught fire at Houston’s Bush Airport right before takeoff. The thought of a plane catching fire at the airport is of course unsettling. But, understanding what happens during such an emergency can offer some peace of mind.
Firefighters Rush in as Quickly as Possible
The moment an airport control tower receives an alert about a potential fire on a plane, a well-practiced emergency response protocol kicks into gear. Airport firefighters, who are specifically trained to handle aircraft fires, mobilize within seconds.
These responders, often stationed on-site, operate specialized fire trucks equipped with powerful water cannons and foam dispensers designed to extinguish fires rapidly.
Firefighters’ swift arrival is crucial, as every second counts when it comes to preventing a blaze from spreading. They work closely with air traffic control and ground crews to gain access to the aircraft safely. Their priority is not only to extinguish the fire but also to ensure passenger and crew safety.
These firefighters undergo rigorous training, simulating aircraft fires to refine their techniques and responses to high-stress situations. They are also practicing safe firefighting techniques, something that’s much needed right now, especially after the toxic firefighting foam cancer lawsuits.
In recent years, airports have started moving away from using traditional firefighting foams that contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Many airports that are still using such PFAS-based foams for firefighting purposes are continuously being asked to stop using them. According to TruLaw, PFAS, while effective in suppressing fires, has been linked to serious health concerns, including cancer.
AFFF (Aqueous Film Forming Foam), which contains PFAS, has led to numerous legal battles, including the AFFF lawsuits. The AFFF cancer lawsuits allege that AFFF exposure to PFAS has caused health issues among firefighters and even residents near airports. As a result, some airports are transitioning to safer, environmentally friendly alternatives, aiming to reduce the risk of exposure.
Why do airports always have firefighting teams on standby?
Airports have firefighting teams on standby because aircraft emergencies, such as fuel leaks, engine failures, or crashes, require immediate response. Aviation fuel burns intensely, making quick intervention critical for saving lives and minimizing damage. These teams are trained to handle unique aviation-related fire hazards efficiently.
Emergency Slides Deploy for Evacuation
If the situation calls for it, flight attendants waste no time in initiating an emergency evacuation. The plane’s doors are opened, and the emergency slides are deployed. These slides are designed to inflate within seconds, providing a quick and safe exit route for passengers.
The process of evacuating a plane is not as calm and orderly as one might hope. Flight attendants shout clear, assertive instructions, guiding passengers to leave their belongings behind and exit the aircraft as swiftly as possible. The goal is to get everyone off the plane within 90 seconds, as fires on aircraft can escalate rapidly.
The Plane May Be Sprayed with Fire-Retardant Foam
In addition to water, airport firefighters often use fire-retardant foam to smother flames and prevent them from reigniting. This foam is particularly useful for extinguishing fuel fires, which are a significant risk if the fire involves the plane’s wings or fuel tanks.
This foam creates a blanket over the fire, cutting off its oxygen supply and effectively suppressing the blaze. Depending on the severity of the fire, firefighters may continue applying foam even after the flames are out. This is to ensure there is no residual risk.
What makes fires in planes difficult to get rid of?
Fires in planes are challenging to extinguish due to highly flammable aviation fuel, enclosed spaces, and the rapid spread of flames. Modern aircraft materials can produce toxic fumes when burned, further complicating firefighting efforts. Specialized fire suppression systems and trained personnel are essential for containment.
The Airport Activates Its Emergency Response Plan
Airports are like small cities, complete with their own emergency response plans. When a fire breaks out, the airport’s emergency operations center is immediately activated. Airport staff may halt all other flights, close runways, and direct incoming planes to alternate locations to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
The airport’s communication team also steps in to manage the flow of information. They work with airline representatives to provide accurate updates to passengers, both those involved in the incident and those waiting in the terminal.
Emergency medical teams are also on standby, ready to treat injuries ranging from smoke inhalation to more severe trauma.
Passengers and Crew Are Assessed for Injuries
After evacuating, passengers and crew are usually taken to a safe area where medical personnel conduct initial health assessments. Even if no flames directly reach the cabin, smoke inhalation can be a serious concern. Passengers might receive oxygen or other medical treatments, depending on their symptoms.
In cases of more significant injuries, individuals are transported to nearby hospitals. Airlines often have protocols in place to assist injured passengers and provide support to their families. Counseling services may also be offered to help people cope with the trauma of the experience.
An Investigation Follows to Determine the Cause
Once the immediate danger is under control, attention turns to understanding what caused the fire. Investigators from aviation authorities, the airline, and sometimes independent agencies examine the aircraft and gather evidence. The investigation may include reviewing maintenance records, examining any cargo on board, and analyzing data from the plane’s black box.
The findings of such investigations are crucial for preventing future incidents. If the fire is determined to be due to mechanical failure, manufacturing defects, or maintenance lapses, the airline may face regulatory scrutiny.
Do airport operations stop if a plane on the ground catches fire?
Yes, airport operations may temporarily stop if a plane catches fire on the ground, depending on the severity of the incident. Air traffic control may redirect flights, and emergency responders secure the area to prevent further risks. However, larger airports often resume operations quickly with minimal disruption.
Safety Remains the Top Priority
Recently, the number of plane crashes and incidents in the US has gone up. A fire on a plane at the airport is an equally scary scenario. However, robust safety protocols are almost always in place to minimize harm and control the situation as swiftly as possible.
The coordinated efforts of firefighters, ground crews, and emergency personnel play a critical role in ensuring that passengers and crew are brought to safety. With evolving technologies and a growing awareness of safety risks, airports and airlines continue to refine their approaches to handling emergencies. Ultimately, the rare nature of these incidents should reassure travelers that they are in good hands even when the unexpected occurs.