NUMBER OF DISABLED AIRCRAFT INCIDENTS HIGHLIGHTS URGENT NEED TO ENHANCE RECOVERY PREPAREDNESS

NUMBER OF DISABLED AIRCRAFT INCIDENTS HIGHLIGHTS URGENT NEED TO ENHANCE RECOVERY PREPAREDNESS

Lisse, 27 February 2024 - Despite technological advancements and heightened awareness, the number of incidents involving disabled aircraft has reached an all-time high since 2019. When an incident occurs, it is already too late to begin thinking about aircraft recovery preparedness. Airports cannot afford to wait 24 hours or even a week before removing a disabled aircraft from the runway. A runway closure this long creates a tremendous financial loss as a consequence.

Key findings from RESQTEC's latest report include:

In 2023 alone, there were 158 incidents reported, marking a significant increase from the previous years.

This is an increase of 15 incidents in comparison to 2022 and 2 incidents more than during pre-COVID times, back in 2019.

The average closure time per incident stands at 14 hours, with the longest operation stretching beyond 144 hours.

While the majority of these incidents fall into category I (i.e., light incidents such as a flat tire, landing gear de-bogging, etc.), the average closure time of a runway or airport remains high.

Approximately 45% of these incidents occur at single-runway airports, severely impacting their operations and business continuity.

Martijn Poen, International Sales Manager at RESQTEC, expressed concerns about the findings, stating: "These statistics show that preparedness for incidents with disabled aircraft remains low across the globe. Both aircraft and airport operators often lack the required preparation, knowledge, and equipment to perform quick and safe recovery operations."

He emphasized the critical role of training in the preparation process, adding: "The right knowledge and practical experience are crucial for an aircraft recovery operation to be quick and efficient.“

RESQTEC, known for its pioneering efforts to collect reliable data on incidents with disabled aircraft and recovery operations worldwide, estimates that its statistics capture approximately 60% of incidents, suggesting that the actual number could be significantly higher.

To receive the report, more information or media inquiries, please contact:

Martijn Poen

International Sales Manager

martijn@resqtec.com

+31615174569

About RESQTEC:

RESQTEC is a globally recognized pioneer in providing innovative rescue and aircraft recovery equipment and high-quality, hands-on aircraft recovery training courses and services. With over 50 years of experience, RESQTEC is committed to transforming rescue and aircraft recovery operations into safe and efficient processes through innovation and education.