Fire cover is determined by strict parameters, if those parameters can't be met then there is insufficient fire cover.
In the event of insufficient fire cover, it appears that LHR is not open for business, for low fuel state aircraft LTN/STN/SEN and LGW are viable alternatives with minimal additional flight time.
We don't know who calls the shots, whether it's the chief fire officer or higher up, triggered by the insufficient fire cover call from the fire services?
Statistically, the chances of an accident are slim if it remains open, but ATC sorted it out and re-directed aircraft to airports with fire cover without too much drama, maybe those operatives who dispatch without alternatives should rethink their policies rather than Heathrow?
Last edited by Momoe; 14th Jul 2013 at 16:37.