Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) has announced the undertaking of a multiagency emergency exercise this October.
The exercise, which will take place on Tuesday 28 and Wednesday 29 October, forms part of WSI’s ongoing programme to prepare for its opening during the second half of 2026.
The two-day programme will include testing of a full-scale aerodrome emergency response to a simulated airplane incident, as well as the landing of a NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) 737 aircraft on the WSI runway on 28 October.
The exercise is set to test the airport’s overall preparedness, response and recovery capabilities in accordance with the WSI Aerodrome Emergency Plan (AEP) whilst ensuring the airport meets CASA Certification processes required for the airport’s opening.
Approximately 300 volunteers and emergency service partners from the NSW Police Force, Fire and Rescue NSW, RFS, and NSW Ambulance as well as federal agencies including the Australian Federal Police, Australian Border Force and Airservices Australia will take part in the simulation alongside WSI’s operational staff.
WSI CEO Simon Hickey said:This will be the most significant emergency exercise WSI has conducted to date and is critical in ensuring that we’re fully prepared to respond safely and efficiently in the unlikely event of an emergency,” he said.
While the exercise will be invaluable in putting our operational staff and all first responders through their paces, it will also serve to familiarise our emergency service partners with the brand-new WSI precinct – the nation’s first major international greenfield airport in more than 50 years.
