Fire teams and Hazmat crews responded to aircraft emergency at SLO County Airport
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY, Calif. – Fire crews and Hazmat teams responded to an aircraft emergency on the tarmac at San Luis Obispo County Airport Friday.
According to the San Luis Obispo County Airport, the pilot and copilot safely walked away from the emergency and declined medical aid at the scene.
The airport was closed for until 5 p.m. as fire crews respond to the scene that first resulted in an emergency response around 9:15 a.m. detailed the San Luis Obispo County Airport.
Flames were reported early during the incident, but were quickly extinguished explained the San Luis Obispo County Fire Department.
Fire crews responded alongside Hazmat units to mitigate the impact of approximately 90 gallons of fuel from the single-engine aircraft shared the San Luis Obispo Fire Department.
"Thanks to the rapid response of our two personnel on Crash 21 and their aggressive attack on the fire we were able to minimize impacts to the airport by keeping the fire from spreading to wings of the aircraft where fuel is stored," shared Ryan Grebe, Public Information Officer for San Luis Obispo County Fire Department. "I believe their timely actions as well as the positive working relationship we have with SBP airport staff helped ensure the safety of the two individuals on board and we are very thankful that this incident did not result in any injuries or worse for those involved."
Arriving flights were diverted by their respective airlines and departing flights were grounded until the scene was secured explained the San Luis Obispo County Airport.
The San Luis Obispo County Fire Department shared that more information about the incident is pending a Federal Aviation Administration investigation.
"At this time, we are focused on supporting emergency responders and gathering accurate information," said Courtney Johnson, Director of Airports. "We appreciate the public’s patience and understanding as we work through the details of this incident."
