On the horizon: The role of aviation in local emergency management planning

Timothy S. Wallace, BS; Jonathan L. Katz, PhD, PMP

doi:10.5055/jem.2012.0091

Authors

Timothy S. Wallace, BS
Jonathan L. Katz, PhD, PMP

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5055/jem.2012.0091

Keywords:

aviation, local, emergency, planning

Abstract

The authors wished to identify available guidance for local emergency management agencies (LEMAs) on the use of aviation resources in local emergency management (EM) planning. If handled properly, aviation is a proven asset that can be effectively used before, during, and after emergencies.The authors determined that literature on LEMA planning provides little evidence of local governments systematically addressing the role of aviation in their planning for emergencies. Most localities could improve their response capabilities if they integrate aviation into their planning. To provide ideas and to spur discussion in the LEMA community, this article addresses the current position of aviation in local emergency planning, what aspects of the role of aviation in emergencies that LEMAs should take into account including federal and state authority in EM aviation, and possible means and templates to assist LEMAs in incorporating aviation into their planning.

Author Biographies

Timothy S. Wallace, BS

Federal Aviation Administration, US Department of Transportation, Washington, District of Columbia.

Jonathan L. Katz, PhD, PMP

Federal Aviation Administration, Aviation Safety, US Department of Transportation, Washington, District of Columbia.

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