MBJ urges calm during ‘Operation Nighthawk’ at Sangster Int’l today

MBJ Airports Limited (MBJ), operator of Sangster International Airport (SIA), has indicated it will be conducting a comprehensive emergency response exercise today between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. The exercise, dubbed ‘Operation Nighthawk’, will simulate a terminal incident to test and enhance the airport’s emergency preparedness capabilities.

The biennial exercise, mandated by the Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority and International Civil Aviation Organization, will involve the simulation of a terminal incident and will require coordinated responses from MBJ’s Emergency Response Services, and mutual aid support partners, including the Jamaica Fire Brigade, Jamaica Constabulary Force, Jamaica Defence Force, and the Ministry of Health and Wellness among others.

“The safety and security of our passengers, staff, and stakeholders remain our top priority,” said Shane Munroe, CEO of MBJ Airports Limited. “Operation Nighthawk allows us to test and refine our emergency response protocols while strengthening the collaboration with our emergency response partners. This ensures we maintain the highest standards of safety and emergency preparedness at Sangster International Airport.”

The exercise will feature volunteers acting as participants in the simulated scenario, enabling first responders to practise essential emergency procedures, including establishing security cordons, controlling access, and conducting triage and evacuation procedures.

As part of the emergency exercise, MBJ said there will be an increased presence of emergency response vehicles in and around the airport premises.

The airport operators sought to assure the public that any emergency response activities observed during the designated time frame are part of the planned exercise and urged that airport users and the surrounding community remain calm and continue their normal activities while the drill is in progress.