Which agency assumes command of firefighting and rescue operations at an aircraft incident or accident?

• A. Los Angeles Fire Department
• B. Airport Police
• C. Airfield Operations
• D. FAA

Answer: (A)

When an aircraft incident happens, the on-scene command for firefighting and rescue is handled by the local fire department that provides Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) at the airport. At LAX, that responsibility falls to the Los Angeles Fire Department. They bring the specialized training, equipment, and command structure needed to control fires, perform rescues, establish safe zones, and coordinate with other responding agencies until the situation is stabilized.

Airport Police focus on security and law enforcement, not firefighting; Airfield Operations coordinate general airport safety and operations but do not lead firefighting or rescue; the FAA regulates and oversees aviation safety but does not take over on-scene command for firefighting.