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HAGERSTOWN, MD – Hagerstown Regional Airport (HGR) is scheduled to conduct a comprehensive, full-scale simulated aircraft emergency exercise on Saturday, October 3, 2026. This drill, which will take place from 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., is designed to test and enhance the airport’s and its partners’ readiness for real-world emergencies. The exercise is a routine part of the airport’s commitment to maintaining robust emergency preparedness and operational capabilities.
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The simulated scenario will involve an aircraft emergency, providing an opportunity for HGR, Washington County’s emergency response teams, and various other agencies and organizations to practice and refine their protocols within a realistic training environment. Community volunteers are expected to participate, portraying passengers and other individuals affected by the incident. Their involvement is crucial, allowing responders to practice a wide range of emergency operations, from initial response and medical management through to triage, patient care, passenger accountability, and processes supporting family reunification.
The exercise will draw upon the collaborative efforts of Washington County’s emergency response partners, including those responsible for emergency communications, emergency management, emergency medical services, fire and rescue, and law enforcement, alongside other supporting entities. This coordinated effort will allow all participating agencies to assess their inter-agency coordination, communication strategies, and overall response procedures, with the aim of identifying areas for further improvement in their emergency operations.
Residents and the general public in the vicinity of Hagerstown Regional Airport should be aware that any emergency response activity observed on Saturday, October 3, 2026, is part of this planned preparedness exercise and not a genuine aircraft emergency. Those traveling near the airport may see an increased presence of emergency vehicles, traffic control personnel, and signage related to the exercise.
Hagerstown Regional Airport undertakes a full-scale simulated emergency exercise every three years. This practice is a requirement for regulatory compliance and is a vital component of its ongoing emergency preparedness efforts. These exercises are essential for airport personnel and their emergency response partners to effectively practice their assigned roles and responsibilities, evaluate how well they work together, and ultimately strengthen their preparedness for any potential real emergency.
The airport expressed gratitude to the community volunteers and all participating agencies and organizations for their contributions to this significant training initiative, which ultimately serves to enhance emergency preparedness throughout Washington County.
Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from Hagerstown Regional Airport
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