When fire strikes an airliner, the situation can be extraordinarily sensitive. With so many flight systems, propellants, and moving parts involved, adhering to a set of established rules and regulations is imperative.
NFPA 403: Standard for Aircraft Rescue and Fire-Fighting Services at Airports covers essential requirements for the proper management of accidents and incidents involving any fire on airport property.
Aircraft fire-fighting is a technically complex task, and NFPA 403 includes detailed standards for many important aspects of the process, including aircraft fire emergencies and fire-fighting services and equipment. Further regulations in the standard govern:
- Response times for aircraft rescue and fire-fighting (ARFF) apparatus
- Minimum ARFF personnel staffing levels
- Minimum number of ARFF vehicles based on airport category
- Minimum amounts of extinguishing agents and discharge and response capabilities
Of these points, the response times represent the most substantial change in this edition, as they have been edited to bring the document in closer line with the FAA and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Aircraft fire safety is the top priority at any working airport, and NFPA 403 contains all the information necessary to comply with national standards. Be sure to order your own copy today.
