A new state-of-the-art Fire Training Facility was officially opened by Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Simon Coveney TD today at Cork Airport following an investment of €1.8 million. The new training facility will ensure the Fire & Rescue Services crew has access to world-class training scenarios and programmes.

The Fire Training Facility incorporates the latest design based on a hybrid aircraft training simulator, allowing for a variety of scenarios with various types of aircraft currently operating from Cork Airport. Crucially, the adaptable simulator also facilitates training around future aircraft to operate from the airport.

The training simulator was built by KIDDE Fire Trainers, who are a specialist aviation supplier, while the civil works on-site were completed by Ballincollig firm, HBS Construction.

“We take great pride in the exceptionally high standards of safety at Cork Airport and work hard to ensure they are always maintained. Today’s opening of the new fire training ground further enhances our ability to deal effectively and safely with any situation that may arise during operations at Cork Airport," said Jim Johnson, Chief Fire Officer at Cork Airport.

“The aircraft simulator is designed to a high spec and incorporates several variations to ensure we are equipped to deal with any type of aircraft. The simulator is a duel fuel training rig that can be used for either clean gas burning fires or aviation fuel fires, which have a higher intensity and greater smoke plume. All anticipated scenarios are included within the design such as undercarriages, engine, fuel spill and internal cabin fires. It is a fantastic addition to our overall training and preparedness in the event of an incident,” he added.

Niall MacCarthy, Cork Airport’s Managing Director commented: “The Fire & Rescue Services crew plays a critical role in the safety of the operations and the new facility will ensure they have access to the best possible training scenarios. Today’s opening represents a significant investment by the airport to ensure optimum passenger comfort and safety.

“2017 has seen several significant capital investment programmes coming to fruition as we improve our overall customer experience. It’s important that as we continue to experience passenger growth, we don’t forget to ensure we offer class-leading facilities at Cork Airport."

Last year, Cork Airport Fire & Rescue Services also invested in a new Avenger vehicle, which replaced some older vehicles.