Earlier this summer, Ally was pleased to work with Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to design and deliver an interagency tabletop exercise (TTX) simulating a major aircraft incident. This exercise was part of YVR’s Emergency Exercise Program, which Ally has supported for several years through both annual tabletop and full-scale exercises. These activities are designed to strengthen readiness across the airport community and partner agencies.

A High-Stakes Scenario with Added Pressure

The 2025 TTX was led by YVR Airport in collaboration with federal, provincial, and municipal partners. In addition to the aircraft crash scenario, the exercise also considered the increased operational demands expected during the FIFA 2026 World Cup. The scenario simulated traffic and operating conditions anticipated in June 2026, when Vancouver will host its first of seven FIFA matches, alongside the already high passenger volumes of peak summer travel.

A Community of Responders

A total of 135 participants and controllers from YVR and 16 external agencies took part, including Canada Border Services Agency, Canadian Air Transport Security Authority, BC Emergency Health Services, and the City of Richmond Fire Rescue Services.

Objectives That Guided the Exercise

Key objectives included:

• Strengthening preparedness for an on-airport aircraft crash.
• Planning for increased passenger traffic during FIFA 2026.
• Discussing integrated response and coordination among agencies.
• Addressing short- and long-term security considerations.

Testing Plans in a Realistic Setting

The scenario prompted participants to work through incident management priorities, communication pathways, and recovery planning. Participants left the exercise with an improved understanding of their own roles, the responsibilities of partner agencies, and the operational challenges that follow a major incident. The lessons identified will help refine plans and procedures in advance of the FIFA 2026 event and beyond.

A Shared Commitment to Safety

Ally thanks all participating agencies for their commitment to preparedness and collaboration in strengthening the YVR community’s emergency response capabilities.