Disaster Air Operations
In federally declared disasters, aviation frequently plays a critical role in supporting the disaster response. Air assets can span several agencies such as the US Coast Guard for rescue work, the Civil Air Patrol for digital imaging and reconnaissance and the Department of Defense for airlift, helicopter support and remote sensing.
The experiences of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita demonstrated the need for a variety of air assets in disaster response. Furthermore, Hurricane Dean in Texas further illustrated that an Air Operations Branch Director (AOBD) position is essential. This new position will provide information to the Operations Section Chief on all of the aviation assets available to FEMA.
FEMA Region I has formalized the AOBD position within the command structure. Under the direction of the regional Disaster Operations Director Mark Gallagher, a small crew of Operations and Planning staff identified and cataloged air assets available for a response effort. They also developed maps that depict aviation facilities and the accompanying resources for the six New England states. In addition, Air Branch protocols and points of contact are being coordinated between states and other agencies.
In November 2007, a three day Aviation Focus Group meeting was held at FEMA Region I. Those in attendance included Operations and Planning Sections from FEMA and other agencies including the Federal Aviation Agency, Bureau of Land Management, US Forest Service, Transportation Security Agency, NORTHCOM and Air Force National Security Emergency Preparedness. In addition, FEMA had representation from Headquarters, the National Response Coordination Center and Regions IV & VI.
The purpose of the initial Air Operations Coordination meeting was to explore recently developed initiatives and how best to coordinate air assets for disaster response. The intent of the meeting was to bring national attention to the importance of coordinated aviation in a major disaster response. As it currently operates, FEMA relies on its federal partners within the Emergency Support Functions to staff air operations.
The role aviation plays during a disaster is critical and highly visible. It is but one of the many facets that an Operations Section Chief must factor into his decision making process. Since aviation is a specialty that often presents unique problems, it is imperative that the Air Branch Director is someone who demonstrates expertise in aviation and understands the warning signs, risks, capabilities and limitations that an aircrew can face.
An Air Operations Branch will play a key role in supporting disaster operations through coordination of air assets. Formalizing this role will ensure that the Operations Section Chief has situational awareness on all available aviation assets. This function will improve the operational mission and lead to a more successful disaster response.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 26-Feb-2008 11:55:15 EST