Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Training conducted at Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport

The Sonoma County Fire District is participating in specialized Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting training at the Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport, strengthening regional preparedness and coordinated response capabilities for aviation emergencies.

The training brings together firefighters, airport personnel, and emergency medical responders to practice coordinated response procedures specific to aircraft incidents. The annual four-day hands-on exercise, which runs through Friday, simulates realistic emergency scenarios designed to enhance responder safety, communication, incident command coordination, and rapid life-saving operations.

This training is critical to maintaining operational readiness at STS, ensuring that local agencies remain prepared to respond effectively to aircraft emergencies while protecting passengers, flight crews, airport employees, and the surrounding community.

Participants trained on:

• Aircraft hazard recognition and safety zones
• Rapid fire suppression techniques 
• Passenger rescue and evacuation operations
• Unified command and interagency coordination
• Airport access, communications, and emergency response protocols

“Training like this ensures our firefighters and partner agencies are ready for highly specialized incidents that require quick coordination and decisive action,” said Ron Busch Fire Chief of the Sonoma County Fire District. “While aviation emergencies are rare, preparation and collaboration are essential to maintaining public safety.”

The exercise reflects the ongoing partnership between the Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport, local fire agencies, law enforcement partners, emergency medical services, and regional public safety organizations. 

“We are grateful to the Sonoma County Fire District and other mutual aid organizations for their continued partnership and support of emergency preparedness at the Charles M. Schulz – Sonoma County Airport,” said Jon Stout, airport manager. “Conducting this hands-on training at the Airport plays a critical role in maintaining readiness and meeting FAA’s annual Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Training requirements. Training together in our operational environment using the same equipment and facilities we rely on during an actual incident strengthens coordination among responders and reinforces our shared commitment to protecting the traveling public and community.”
 
The training is being conducted in a controlled environment with safety personnel overseeing all operations. Members of the public may observe emergency vehicles and simulated response activity near the airport during the exercise.

About Charles M. Schulz – Sonoma County Airport (STS)
 
Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport provides commercial, general aviation, and emergency aviation services for Sonoma County and the surrounding North Bay region, serving as a critical transportation and economic hub.

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Media Contacts: 
Jon Stout, Sonoma County Airport Manager 
jon.stout@sonomacounty.gov 
(707) 565-7243 

Sonoma County Public Affairs 
publicaffairs@sonomacounty.gov 
(707) 565-3040