The fleet of newly commissioned craft was deployed for the first time during the Singapore airport’s annual crisis simulation exercise
As part of its long-term strategy to enhance operational readiness and safety, Changi Airport Group (CAG) continues to invest in both its Airport Emergency Service (AES) personnel and emergency preparedness equipment. Three new types of craft – command craft, fast craft and landing craft – have been added to AES’ sea rescue fleet, replacing older craft that have reached their end of life.
The new Command Craft brings improved capabilities for managing on-scene coordination of rescue efforts during emergencies at sea. Functioning as the workhorse of the fleet, the Fast Craft has the speed and agility to perform firefighting, surface water rescue, and casualty conveyance with greater efficiency.
The third of the newly commissioned craft, the Landing Craft replaced the previous hovercraft with enhanced capabilities while maintaining the same core functions – firefighting and casualty management. With a capacity of 50 passengers, and the ability to reach speeds of up to 40 knots, this vessel is versatile for sea rescue operations.
CAG’s annual crisis simulation exercise, ‘Exercise Bobcat’, involved nearly 20 agencies and more than 200 role players.
Puar Teck Jin, CAG’s chief of the Airport Emergency Service, said: “This year’s exercise has helped to test the readiness of our men and the new craft as well as the coordination with our mutual aid partners. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all the participants and government agencies, as well as our airlines and airport partners and the Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal team for their contributions to this exercise.”
