In an effort to test the readiness of stakeholders to respond to a security bomb threat, the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) conducted a full-scale exercise at Entebbe International Airport on Thursday, October 26, 2023.
The exercise simulated a scenario involving flight No. AF 347, which had 40 passengers and 3 crew members on board. During taxiing for takeoff, a crew member discovered a bomb threat note in the aircraft lavatories and immediately notified Air Traffic Control.
All relevant airport stakeholders, including airline operators, ground handling agents, joint security operatives, United Nations representatives, UCAA staff, health personnel, and other government agencies, were involved in the exercise to test their response in accordance with the security contingency plan.
This security exercise is a mandatory requirement for international airports in countries that are contracting members of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). It aims to evaluate the emergency contingency response plans, communication processes, procedures, and coordination with valued partners, stakeholders, and government agencies.
To ensure that the exercise did not disrupt regular operations, a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) was issued to operators of commercial flights in and out of Entebbe International Airport. The NOTAM alerted them that the exercise would be taking place between 2:00 and 4:00 pm.
The UCAA last conducted a full-scale security exercise on November 4, 2019, and this recent exercise demonstrates their commitment to continuously enhancing the airport’s security measures.
