HICKORY — Hickory Regional Airport will run a full-scale emergency exercise Thursday, March 26, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. on the North ramp near the FBO building, the City of Hickory said March 23, 2026.
The drill tests a coordinated response to a simulated aircraft incident with airport, fire, police, EMS, and federal teams. The public may see a large presence of emergency personnel, fire trucks, ambulances, police vehicles, and other equipment at and around the airport. Units may also stage at L.P. Frans Stadium. Simulated smoke and mock scenes are part of the training, not a real emergency.
Airport grounds will be closed for the exercise. The city said no disruption to normal airport operations is anticipated.
Volunteers acting as patients will let agencies practice evaluation, triage, and transport. The city said the Federal Aviation Administration and the International Civil Aviation Organization periodically require high-fidelity drills.
Airport Director Chad Hunsucker said, “Safety is our highest priority, and this exercise allows our team and partners to train in a realistic environment to ensure a coordinated, effective response.” Thursday’s work focuses on the airport emergency response plan, protocols, and communication. The city called it one of several routine preparedness activities during the year.
The March 23 notice does not list participating agency names beyond the categories above, a public viewing area, or whether commercial flights will use a different ramp.
Official release from City of Hickory, March 23, 2026. https://www.hickorync.gov/hickory-regional-airport-plans-emergency-response-training-exercise
