Cotswold Airport Joins National Association to Enhance Safety Protocols

Strategic Insights -

Cotswold Airport has strengthened its commitment to safety by joining the Airport Fire Officers Association (AFOA), a national industry association focused on ensuring the highest standards of fire safety and emergency response. The airport in Kemble, which hosts innovative green aviation technologies, including hydrogen fuel cell and battery electric aircraft, has recognized the need for enhanced safety protocols as these emerging technologies present unique challenges.

Key Takeaways:

  • Cotswold Airport has joined the Airport Fire Officers Association (AFOA) to reinforce its focus on safety, particularly around emerging green aviation technologies.
  • The airport is the only operational site in the UK hosting both hydrogen fuel cell-powered aircraft and battery electric (VTOL) aircraft, developed by Zero Avia and Vertical Aerospace.
  • Hydrogen-powered aircraft pose detection and suppression challenges due to their nearly invisible flames that burn at more than 2,200°C and radiate little heat.
  • Electric aircraft powered by lithium batteries face risks including thermal runaway during an accident, which can release hazardous gases.
  • Cotswold Airport has contributed to Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) policy development through working groups focused on hydrogen and battery-powered aircraft technologies.
  • The airport team will inform skills development within AFOA with their experience and expertise.

Statistics:

  • Hydrogen-powered aircraft can produce nearly invisible flames that burn at more than 2,200°C.
  • Hydrogen has the potential to detonate under certain conditions, requiring the correct extinguishing media in appropriate volumes.
  • Electric aircraft powered by lithium batteries face risks including thermal runaway during an accident, which can release hazardous gases.
  • Extinguishing fires with water in electric aircraft can cause environmental contamination if not managed properly.

Sources:

  • Andrew Wood, rescue and fire fighting service manager at Cotswold Airport
  • Suzannah Harvey, CEO of Cotswold Airport
  • Wakefield Express