WILLEMSTAD – The government of Curaçao continues to prepare for potential crises and disasters, including the unlikely but serious risk of an airplane accident. To meet both local disaster response laws and international aviation safety standards, Curaçao Airport Partners (CAP) will conduct a full-scale aircraft accident simulation on Saturday, September 6, 2025.
The exercise is being organized in close cooperation with Curaçao’s Crisis Management and Disaster Response Organization (CRBO) and the island’s crisis team. Officials emphasize that this collaboration is deliberate, as a real incident of this nature would almost certainly trigger activation of the crisis team to help safeguard the island.
Preparations for the training began months ago to minimize disruptions at Hato International Airport and ensure normal airport operations can continue during the exercise. The drill will be carried out as realistically as possible to maximize the effectiveness of the training.
Misinformation warning
Authorities noted that a video circulating on social media falsely suggests the simulation is linked to recent regional tensions. Crisis management coordinator Lesley Fer, speaking on behalf of the crisis team, stressed that the video is inaccurate and urged the public to remain calm and rely only on official government communication channels.
“Sharing information from unofficial sources only causes unnecessary panic and does not contribute positively to our society,” Fer said. He called on citizens to stay informed, remain prepared, and support each other in times of crisis.
Hurricane season reminder
The crisis team also reminded residents that Curaçao is still in hurricane season until November 30 and advised households to keep an emergency kit ready. Recommended items include water, medicines, cash, non-perishable food, towels, a battery-powered radio, and a flashlight. Families are encouraged to practice emergency plans together and to assist neighbors when possible.
By continuing such exercises, the government and its partners reaffirm their commitment to ensuring Curaçao is prepared for emergencies and resilient in the face of potential disasters.
