Originally Posted by
DuncanDoenitz
Incidentally, with regard to communicating the location, I think a Crash Map grid reference is ok for an incident off-piste, but you can't whack the Airfield Chart for precision. Every responder is Airfield Driving qualified (or will be so escorted) and will know exactly where "Taxiway Tango abeam Stand 23" is.
The crash map grid reference is given for clarity and simplicity. It enables the crews to easily memorise the location whilst they are running and getting their PPE on, starting the vehicles, and getting moving. Once they are crewed and moving, the definitive location, route, and any further pertinent details can be passed. Not all responders are crash vehicle driving qualified either, and I’ve known a few that aren’t qualified for airside area driving. The emergency crews have a good working knowledge of the airfield but not everyone of them will know
exactly where “Taxiway Tango Abram stand 23” is. If taxiway Alpha is 3km long, the airfield grid reference is much more accurate in getting first responders rapidly moving to a reference they are familiar with, and train for.
The airfield grid is also a vital element for directing external resources to the incident scene. When one kicks off for real simplicity is key as not all airport staff who play a role in the real thing, escorting etc, will be regular airside drivers or operators.