Boeing 747 fire at Doncaster Sheffield Airport: Fire crews used empty airport to train for emergency landing

Firefighters from West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service were training for emergency landings and put their skills to the test at Doncaster Sheffield Airport following its closure. The exercise, which was called ‘Houston, we have a problem’ was based around an emergency landing of a Boeing 747 which led to a fire breaking out.

Crews from Wakefield, Ossett and Pontefract stations took part alongside firefighters from Doncaster Sheffield Fire Service, which saw them tackle an aircraft fuel fire in the engine, making entry to the aircraft as well as casualty location and evacuation.

Watch commanders Steve Blore and Jon Brandt also attended the scenario-based training along with station manager Ronan Bruce. Station manager Bruce said: “It was a fantastic exercise for all crews who proved they were experts at utilising onsite information resources to ensure safety of all passengers on the Boeing 747. They showed complete understanding of the situation and used the correct equipment to ensure success. Doncaster Sheffield Fire Service crews were quick to compliment the effort, ability and attitude shown by WYFRS crews.

“The district and the crews involved were very grateful for the opportunity to utilise the facilities, especially with all the uncertainty at the time surrounding the status of the airport. Credit must go to the Doncaster Sheffield personnel, especially Craig Steeley, who have been extremely professional, patient and helpful throughout an ongoing agreement between Wakefield district and the airport.”