First UK Use Of LPG-Fueled System

As part of a drive to create a fire training center of excellence for Wales, Cardiff International Airport's 52 fire-fighters are set to be the UK's first users of the world's most advanced aircraft fire-training rig.

The Welsh airport is the UK's first purchaser of an advanced German-made fire-training aircraft simulator, representing an investment of $1.5 million. Designed and manufactured by Draeger Safety in Germany, Cardiff International's new fire-training rig simulates all aircraft types operating at the Welsh airport, spanning both single and twin-aisle aircraft.

The new LPG-fuelled rig replaces a seven-year-old training simulator, fueled by kerosene that will now be used for "full-crash" exercises at the airport.

"This new training rig will give us the most up-to-date facility in the UK, providing 13 different computer-generated fire-fighting scenarios, from cockpit fires to fires starting in the galley, toilet, or engines," said Cardiff's Senior Airport Fire Officer, Ray Imperato.

"It will also provide a superb facility for the intensive training courses we extend to other fire-brigades, including those for industrial plants," he continued. "We have taken this opportunity to improve our 'carbon-footprint', as the new rig will be fueled by low-emission LPG, rather than the industry-standard use of kerosene."

The Deputy First Minister and Minister for the Economy and Transport, Ieuan Wyn Jones, said: "I am pleased to be launching the new LPG Fire Training Simulator which will provide valuable training for all fire services in this area."

The new training rig at Cardiff International Airport will be used at least four times a week for the airport's own fire-fighters, who work in four daily shifts of 13 to provide a full 24/7 service. The rig will also be used for external training courses, provided for other fire brigades.

"While the new rig will be used for training on all potential fire-risks, the old rig is being remodeled to provide training for extreme crash circumstances. This will make Cardiff International one of the UK's only regional airports to provide such comprehensive fire-fighting training," said Imperato.

FMI: www.cwlfly.com, www.draeger-safety.com