In this article, Vanessa Miles, Station Manager at London Biggin Hill Airport discusses the unseen role of an airport firefighter.
When most people think about an airport firefighter, they picture us responding to emergencies. While we’re trained to do this at a moment’s notice, these incidents are thankfully rare.
At London Biggin Hill Airport, we’re part of a much wider operational team, working together to keep operations running smoothly. The airport has invested significantly in its infrastructure in recent years, from runway resurfacing to enhanced lighting and weather monitoring systems, and part of our role is to help ensure those assets continue operating as intended.
Beyond emergency response
One of our first daily tasks is a full inspection of the airfield. We assess runway and taxiway surfaces, check lighting systems and pavement markings, and identify anything that could affect flight operations. Once those inspections are complete, we confirm with Air Traffic Control that the airfield is safe and ready for the day.
We also carry out regular airfield patrols, support security operations, assist with aircraft marshalling and provide ground handling support when required. Every member of the team must be adaptable, moving between routine operational responsibilities and maintaining immediate readiness should an emergency arise.
Supporting safe daily operations
No two days on the airfield are the same. Weather conditions, aircraft movements and day-to-day operational demands all require us to remain flexible and ready to respond. Regardless of the circumstances, our priority is always the same: supporting the safe and efficient operation of the airport.
Working in full personal protective equipment (PPE), often outdoors for extended periods, can be physically demanding, and looking after our own wellbeing is just as important as looking after the airfield. Staying hydrated, rotating duties where possible and looking out for one another help ensure everyone can continue performing to their best standards throughout the day.
The role of the airport firefighter
Airport firefighting is a role that combines emergency response with operational responsibility, technical knowledge and teamwork. Most passengers will never see the breadth of the work we do, and that’s exactly how it should be. If aircraft can continue to take off and land safely and efficiently, we’ve done our job properly.
