Integrated Civilian-Military Air Operations in the Wake of Hurricane Ian

Abstract

Introduction:

Hurricane Ian impacted Southwest Florida in September 2022 leaving massive destruction. Notably, the barrier islands were isolated by destroyed bridges and docks. Delivery of Search and Rescue, Medical Care, and other aid required a joint Civilian-Military Air Operation to provide essential services.

Method:

This presentation will detail the just-in-time development and operation of a massive joint civilian-military air operation in order to provide essential disaster response services.

Results:

Components of the joint air operation included:

• the establishment of a regional air asset request center

• creation of a command structure for air mission tasking

• the use of an airborne military air traffic control asset for forward control

• setting up a helibase at an international airport

• creation of multiple helispots in remote damaged areas with forward control assets

• the coordination with numerous private, NGO, municipal, county, state, federal, and military agencies

• heavy, medium, and light lift helicopter operations

• both civilian and military dedicated medevac

• hoist and water rescue operations

• accommodating a US presidential visit during operations

Together these operations supported the transportation needs of Search and Rescue, Medical, Command, Planning, and Logistics Operations for XXX days until the establishment of reliable ground transportation.

Conclusion:

This presentation will not only provide insight into the planning and operation of the joint air operation but will also share the impacts on the medical care from the physicians who were directly involved in the medical care delivered on the barrier islands of Florida.