Windhoek — While the private aviation companies that operate from Eros Airport seem to be having problems sticking to air safety procedures by the book, this has not been the case for aviation parastatals.

This week, thick smoke, sirens and explosions were seen and heard at the Hosea Kutako International Airport when a simulation exercise was held in order to assess the readiness of emergency response services to disasters.

The exercise is conducted after every two years and is in line with the International Civil Aviation Organisation's standards and recommended practices.

The exercise evaluates the readiness of the emergency services of the Namibia Airports Company (NAC), the Hosea Kutako International Airport and its support services as well as different stakeholders on how to deal with a major aircraft accident. The exercise also improves coordination, communication and overall performance of the emergency team.

At least 250 people participated in this week's exercise, including 60 people who were acting as passengers, members of the Namibian Red Cross and the City of Windhoek's emergency response unit, as well as officials from hospitals, immigration and the police.