Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) conducted a successful full-scale security exercise at Entebbe International Airport, to further test the facility’s readiness to respond to a security bomb threat.
The exercise which was conducted on Thursday October 26, 2023 between 2pm – 4pm is a mandatory requirement for International Airports of countries which are members under International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to test their emergency contingency response plans.
According to a statement from UCAA, the exercise involved simulation of a flight number AF 347 with 40 passengers and 3 crew members on board that notified air traffic control of a bomb threats note, discovered in the lavatories by a crew member as the aircraft was taxing for takeoff.
According to UCCA public affairs boss Mr. Vianney Luggya, the exercise which was last conducted in November 2019 is meant to evaluate communication processes, procedures, and methods in working with valued partners, stakeholders and government agencies.
In this case, all concerned airport stakeholders including Airline operators, ground handling agents, joint security operatives, UN staff, UCCA staff, and health personnel were involved as per the security contingency plan.
According to Mr. Luggya, a notice to airmen (NOTAM) was also issued to operators of commercial flights in and out of Entebbe International Airport to avoid unnecessary inconveniences.