A Trailblazing Simulation in Airport Safety and Response
ATLANTA – In both a dynamic and dramatic display of readiness and collaboration, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) transformed into a live-action scene of emergency response March 6 as its triennial “Big Bird” drill unfolded, setting a new standard in aviation safety. This critical drill, mandated every 36 months by the Airport Certification Manual and federal regulations, showcased a simulated aircraft fire scenario to test and enhance the coordinated response capabilities of the Airport and city emergency services.
ATL Assistant General Manager of Emergency Management Augustus “Gus” Hudson emphasized the broader impact of the exercise.
“’Big Bird’ goes beyond practice. It’s a powerful statement of our capability and commitment to safeguard every soul at ATL, setting a benchmark for airports worldwide,” he said. “Today, we’ve tested our collective ability to respond swiftly and effectively to an emergency, reinforcing our readiness for any situation.”
Bringing together 73 volunteers, the exercise created a realistic emergency scenario for responders.
The activities took place at the Airport’s North Cargo building, where volunteers were adorned with moulage by certified makeup artists known for their work on major film productions. This initial preparation set the stage for a day filled with comprehensive briefings, the exercise itself, and post-event evaluations at the Fire Training Center.
Here, first responders honed their fire extinguishing skills, emergency medical services and practiced victim triage. Emergency management teams also deployed mobile command units to simulate a full-scale operational response.
Stephanie Creech, senior executive assistant to Airport General Manager Balram “B” Bheodari and a participant in these drills for nearly a decade, shared her reflections.
“The reality of the situation hits you in those moments on the scene of the accident, playing the role of a victim,” she said. “It’s a humbling experience that brings into sharp focus why we train so relentlessly. It’s a powerful moment that underscores not just our commitment to safety, but the deep care and professionalism that defines our airport community.”
The exercise also utilized Fire Station 33 as a simulated hospital for advanced medical care, and the Emergency Operations Center was activated to assess the Airport’s response capabilities during large-scale events. This comprehensive approach underlined ATL’s readiness to manage emergencies with efficiency and precision.
This year’s successful “Big Bird” exercise underscored the Airport’s dedication to maintaining a safe, efficient operational environment, bolstered by the collaborative efforts of ATL’s Emergency Management team, the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department, Atlanta Police Department, Airport partners, and the dedication of numerous volunteers.
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