Big Bird On Ice 2021 AAR

Big Bird on Ice 2021
After-Action Report/Improvement Plan

11/29/2021-12/01/2021
After-Action Report/Improvement Plan (AAR/IP) Big Bird on Ice 2021
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Exercise Overview .................................................................................................. 2
Executive Summary ................................................................................................ 4
Analysis of Objectives ........................................................................................... 5
Conclusion ............................................................................................................. 25
Appendix A: Improvement Plan ...................................................................... A-1
Appendix B: Exercise Participants .................................................................. B-1
Appendix C: Exercise Feedback....................................................................... C-1
Exercise Overview Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

1
Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP)
EXERCISE OVERVIEW
Exercise Name Big Bird on Ice 2021
November 29, 2021 1430-1600

Exercise Dates November 30, 2021 1430-1600
December 1, 2021 0800-1400
This exercise is a Functional Exercise focusing on winter weather

activities. It was planned for eight hours on December 1, 2021, at
Scope
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport with virtual operational
calls taking place 48 and 24 hours prior to the exercise.
Mission Area(s) Response & Recovery
Planning, Operational Coordination, Health & Safety, Critical

Core Capabilities
Transportation, Situational Assessment, Operational Communications
1. All responsible organizations shall demonstrate the ability to
safely implement tasks and actions based on weather forecasts and
changing weather conditions per established winter weather
plans.
2. Demonstrate the ability of the Emergency Operations Center to
Objectives manage a winter weather event in accordance with the principles
of the Incident Command System from the initial notification
through the recovery phases.
3. Demonstrate the ability to make timely and effective decisions that
impact response and recovery from the event’s start through
recovery and return to normal operations.
Threat or Hazard Winter Weather
On Friday, November 26, the National Weather Service releases

information about the potential for a significant winter storm that would
affect much of North and central Georgia on December 1. Within 24
Scenario
hours of the event, the National Weather Service predicts 1-3 inches of
snow for the Atlanta Metro, with the potential of seeing up to 1/10” of ice
accumulation.
Sponsor Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
Participants are from multiple Department of Aviation business units as

Participating
Organizations well as various federal agencies and airline stakeholders. A complete list
of these agencies and organizations can be found in Appendix B.

2
Lynze Jones
Emergency Management Program Manager
Point of Contact Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
404-783-0766
Lynze.Jones@atl.com

3
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Big Bird on Ice 2021 was a three-day Functional Exercise designed to facilitate the development
of response plans based on changing weather forecasts and practice the implementation of
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport’s Winter Weather Operations Manual, as well as
other supporting plans. This exercise took place in the Emergency Operations Center (EOC),
virtually through Zoom, in the Landside and Airside Operations Snow Desks, on Runway 10/28,
and on various roadways surrounding the airport. Participants included Department of Aviation
(DOA) business units and airport stakeholders.
The first day of the exercise included a call through Zoom that highlighted impending winter
weather and began planning for possible operations 48-hours out. The second day of the exercise
also included a winter weather call hosed through Zoom that updated the forecast models for the
impending weather, and further solidified plans across the airport. The third day of the exercise
was comprised of winter weather operations on Runway 10/28, around various airport roadways,
and in the Snow Desks, plus two EOC operational periods. Participants submitted documentation
and enacted plans that would mimic a response to winter weather.
The following objectives were developed for the exercise:
1. All responsible organizations shall demonstrate the ability to safely implement tasks and
actions based on weather forecasts and changing weather conditions per established
winter weather plans.
2. Demonstrate the ability of the Emergency Operations Center to manage a winter weather
event in accordance with the principles of the Incident Command System from the initial
notification through the recovery phases.
3. Demonstrate the ability to make timely and effective decisions that impact response and
recovery from the event’s start through recovery and return to normal operations.

4
ANALYSIS OF OBJECTIVES
Aligning exercise objectives and core capabilities provides a consistent taxonomy for evaluation
that transcends individual exercises to support preparedness reporting and trend analysis. Table 1
includes the exercise objectives, aligned core capabilities, and performance ratings for each core
capability as observed during the exercise and determined by the evaluation team.
Performed Performed Performed Unable to
without with Some with Major be
Objective Core Capability
Challenges Challenges Challenges Performed
(P) (S) (M) (U)
All responsible
Planning
organizations shall
Operational
demonstrate the
Coordination
ability to safely
Health & Safety
implement tasks and
Critical
actions based on S
Transportation
weather forecasts and
Situational
changing weather
Assessment
conditions per
Operational
established winter
Communications
weather plans.
Demonstrate the
ability of the
Emergency Planning
Operations Center to Operational
manage a winter Coordination
weather event in Critical
accordance with the Transportation S
principles of the Situational
Incident Command Assessment
System from the Operational
initial notification Communications
through the recovery
phases.
Demonstrate the Planning
ability to make timely Operational
and effective Coordination
decisions that impact Critical
response and Transportation S
recovery from the Situational
event’s start through Assessment
recovery and return Operational
to normal operations. Communications

5
Table 1. Summary Objective Performance

Ratings Definitions:
Performed without Challenges (P): The targets and critical tasks associated with the critical
task were completed in a manner that achieved the objective(s) and did not negatively impact the
performance of other activities. Performance of this activity did not contribute to additional
health and/or safety risks for the public or for emergency workers, and it was conducted in
accordance with applicable plans, policies, procedures, regulations, and laws.
Performed with Some Challenges (S): The targets and critical tasks associated with the critical
task were completed in a manner that achieved the objective(s) and did not negatively impact the
performance of other activities. Performance of this activity did not contribute to additional
health and/or safety risks for the public or for emergency workers, and it was conducted in
accordance with applicable plans, policies, procedures, regulations, and laws. However,
opportunities to enhance effectiveness and/or efficiency were identified.
Performed with Major Challenges (M): The targets and critical tasks associated with the
critical task were completed in a manner that achieved the objective(s), but some or all of the
following were observed: demonstrated performance had a negative impact on the performance
of other activities; contributed to additional health and/or safety risks for the public or for
emergency workers; and/or was not conducted in accordance with applicable plans, policies,
procedures, regulations, and laws.
Unable to be Performed (U): The targets and critical tasks associated with the critical task were
not performed in a manner that achieved the objective(s).
The following sections provide an overview of the performance related to each exercise
objective and associated critical task, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.

6
Objective 1
All responsible organizations shall demonstrate the ability to safely implement tasks and actions
based on weather forecasts and changing weather conditions per established winter weather
plans.
The strengths and areas for improvement for each critical task aligned to this objective are
described in this section.
Critical Task 1.1

Emergency Management
Host winter weather calls with stakeholders beginning at least 48-hours prior to expected winter
weather to develop plans based on changing weather conditions. 
Strengths
The full capability level can be attributed to the following strengths:
Strength 1: 48-Hour and 24-Hour winter weather calls were held at 1420 on November 29 and
November 30.
Strength 2: On a scale of 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree), 100% of those who
provided participant feedback rated the appropriateness of Zoom as a platform for future winter
weather calls as a 4 or 5.
Critical Task 1.2

Create an EOC organizational chart that aligns with the established operational periods to cover a
3-day event prior to the first operational period.
Strengths
The partial capability level can be attributed to the following strengths:
Strength 1: A staffing plan for the two operational periods in the operational exercise was
created and disseminated prior to the exercise.
Areas for Improvement

The following areas require improvement to achieve the full capability level:
Area for Improvement 1: In the area of planning, the Event Manager should ensure that a
staffing schedule for the EOC teams is drafted 72-48-hours prior to a winter weather event.
Reference: Winter Weather Plan 4.1.2021

7
Analysis: There was no additional EOC staffing outlined for future operational periods beyond
the two operational periods run during the day of the operational exercise.
Critical Task 1.3

Airside Operations
Submit a staffing plan to the EOC for a 3-day winter weather event prior to the first operational
period.
Strengths
Strength 1: A staffing plan was created and submitted to the EOC prior to the beginning of the
first operational period.
Critical Task 1.4

Airside Operations
Submit continuous updates on available resources and their status to the EOC. 
Strengths
Strength 1: Airside Operations continuously submitted information through WebEOC and on
the GoogleDocs link.
Critical Task 1.5

Airside Operations
Conduct surface assessments as conditions change and on a continual basis for areas assigned by
the Winter Weather Operations Manual.
Strengths
Strength 1: Airside Operations personnel inspected runways and taxiways frequently and
reported conditions to the Snow Desk.
Strength 2: All critical aspects of the Winter Weather Operations Manual and Snow and Ice
Control Plan were followed, and participants were aware of their roles under the plans.

8
Critical Task 1.6

Landside Operations
period.
Strengths
Critical Task 1.7

Landside Operations
Submit continuous updates on available resources and their status to the EOC. 
Strengths
Strength 1: Landside Operations continuously submitted information through WebEOC and on
the GoogleDocs link.
Critical Task 1.8

Landside Operations
Activate the Landside Snow Desk and test the function of equipment and communications within
30 minutes of BEGINEX. 
Strengths
Strength 1: The Landside Snow Desk was activated, and communications and equipment were
tested within the requested timeframe.
Strength 2: Operations, as a whole, tested a new communication system throughout the exercise
to further integrate Landside and Airside winter weather operations.
Critical Task 1.9

Landside Operations
Evaluate the ability of DOA Landside-Facilities to deploy a Strike Team to a specified location
within 30 minutes of a request by the Landside Snow Desk.
9
Strengths
Strength 1: All locations designated by the Landside Snow Desk had Strike Teams on scene
within 30 minutes of deployment.
Critical Task 1.10

Landside Operations
Review Section 8 of the WWOM and verify functionality of equipment listed in Section
8.4. throughout the winter weather event. 
Strengths
Strength 1: Landside Operations ensured that all equipment under WWOM Section 8.4 was
tested for operability.
Critical Task 1.11

Landside Operations
Ensure all personnel have proper PPE for winter weather conditions prior to the first operational
period. 
Strengths
Strength 1: All personnel were witnessed with proper PPE for both winter weather activities and
COVID-19 mandates.
Critical Task 1.12

Facilities Management - Airside
Using weather updates from NWS and FAA, within 24 hours of a known event, crews will
outline the staffing levels for the coordination and management for pretreatment application.
Strengths
Strength 1: The Facilities Management Airside team participated in both of the winter weather
calls to determine staffing levels and pre-treatment applications.

10
Critical Task 1.12

Crews will coordinate with Airside Operations to continuously monitor conditions on the
runways and taxiways throughout the winter weather event.
Strengths
Strength 1: The Facilities Management Airside team coordinated with Airside Operations
throughout the entire exercise.
Critical Task 1.13

Coordinate airfield escorts for snow and ice removal with Airside Operations throughout the
winter weather event.  
Strengths
Strength 1: The Facilities Management Airside team coordinated with Airside Operations
throughout the entire exercise.

Area for Improvement 1: In the area of training, roles and responsibilities should be clearly
defined prior to the exercise.
Reference: N/A
Analysis: During the exercise, one of the Airside Operations staff members was following the
strike teams instead of leading them as an escort.
Critical Task 1.14

Runways and taxiways shall be safely cleared within 30 minutes of a reported accumulation of
snow and/or ice.  
Strengths

11
Strength 1: The Facilities Management Airside team safely cleared the runways and taxiways
within the given time.
Critical Task 1.15

period.
Strengths
Critical Task 1.16

Facilities Management - Landside
Using weather updates from NWS and GDOT, within 24 hours of a known event, crews will
outline the staffing levels for the coordination and management for pretreatment application.
Strengths
Strength 1: The Facilities Management Landside team attended both winter weather calls hosted
by Emergency Management.

Area for Improvement 1: In the area of planning, winter weather preparedness operations
should follow relevant plans and policies.
Reference: Facilities Management Winter Weather Manual
Analysis: Some information that should be presented on the calls by Facilities Management
were not discussed, such as, contacting vendors about materials on hand.
Critical Task 1.17

Crews will coordinate with Landside Operations, APD, and Ground Transportation to
continuously monitor and maintain safe conditions on the roadways and facilities
parking throughout the winter weather event.

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Strengths
Strength 1: The Facilities Management Landside team regularly communicated with Landside
Operations, who, had an active role in the exercise.
Critical Task 1.18

period.
Strengths
Critical Task 1.19

Facilities Management - Admin
period.
Strengths
Critical Task 1.20

Communications & Public Affairs
Prepare effective communication for the public via all available media channels from the onset
of the weather event to recovery according to the Communications and Public Affairs Crisis
Communications Plan. 
Strengths
Strength 1: The Communications & Public Affairs staff created pre-written communications
like social media posts, press releases, and talking points for executives. These communications
were modified throughout the incident.

13
Critical Task 1.21

Create a staffing schedule that aligns with the established operational periods to cover a 3-day
event prior to the first operational period.
Strengths
Strength 2: Communications & Public Affairs leadership discussed the potential for long-term
activations and warned staff to pace themselves for multiple days.

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Objective 2
Demonstrate the ability of the Emergency Operations Center to manage a winter weather event
in accordance with the principles of the Incident Command System from the initial notification
through the recovery phases.
Critical Task 2.1

Activate in accordance with the Emergency Operations Center Amended SOG (2020) and the
Emergency Operations Center Annex (2018).
Strengths
Strength 1: The Emergency Operations Center activated with proper staffing and position
assignments.
Strength 2: The Emergency Operations Center used Federal Emergency Management Agency
Incident Command Systems forms throughout the activations.
Critical Task 2.2

Implement a formal planning cycle for both operational periods by establishing and
disseminating a battle rhythm in accordance with the Planning P within 20 minutes of the
exercise.
Strengths
Strength 1: The Emergency Operations Center conducted meetings and briefings aligning with
the Planning P.
Strength 2: The Emergency Operations Center established battle rhythms during the operational
periods.

Area for Improvement 1: In the area of training, the Event Manager and Planning Section
Coordinator should be able to establish a battle rhythm, that includes all meetings and briefings
outlined in the Planning P in a timely manner upon EOC activation.
15
Reference: N/A
Analysis: The battle rhythm was not implemented within the first 20 minutes of the event, and it
was developed with limited scope.
Critical Task 2.3

Process resource requests through the established avenues outlined in the airport's modified ICS
structure throughout the winter weather event.
Strengths
Strength 1: Resource requests were initiated through phone calls into the Emergency Operations
Center.

Area for Improvement 1: In the area of planning, the Emergency Operations Center does not
have a streamlines process for resource requests with backup processes.
Reference: N/A
Analysis: The Resource Request board in WebEOC was inoperable during the exercise, so the
EOC did not formally process the limited resource requests that they received.
Critical Task 2.4

Utilize WebEOC to ensure all units are aware of all outgoing communication throughout all
operational periods.
Strengths
Strength 1: Communications and Public Affair staff updated their WebEOC credentials prior to
the exercise.

Area for Improvement 1: In the area of training, there is a lack of regular training and
utilization for WebEOC across the airport community.

16
Reference: N/A
Analysis: Although the Communications & Public Affairs team submitted information into
WebEOC, they first defaulted to other methods of message dissemination.

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Objective 3
Demonstrate the ability to make timely and effective decisions that impact response and recovery
from the event’s start through recovery and return to normal operations.
Critical Task 3.1

Ensure winter weather logistical software and programs (WebEOC, GoogleDocs, Aerobahn, and
Bosch Video Management System) are running in the EOC to maintain situational awareness
from the beginning of the event, through return to normal operations.
Strengths
Strength 1: The Emergency Operations Center ran all pertinent programs and displayed them on
the monitors throughout the exercise.
Strength 2: In addition to the programs listed in the critical task, the EOC also displayed other
programs and software.
Critical Task 3.2

Establish a demobilization plan to include parameters for returning to normal operations (e.g.,
returning equipment to a state of readiness) by the end of the first operational period.

Area for Improvement 1: In the area of planning, the Emergency Operations Center has not
created a formal demobilization plan for any of the events occurring within the last two years.
Reference: N/A
Analysis: During the exercise, the Emergency Operations Center did not create a demobilization
plan during either of the two operational periods.
Area for Improvement 2: In the area of training, those that staff the Emergency Operations
Center have not received training on developing a demobilization plan.
Reference: N/A

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Analysis: During the exercise, the Emergency Operations Center did not create a demobilization
plan during either of the two operational periods.
Critical Task 3.3

Airside Operations
Provide escorts for maintenance equipment performing snow and ice removal throughout the
operational period.
Strengths
Strength 1: Airside Operations staff closed runways and taxiways and escorted Maintenance
equipment on the airfield.
Critical Task 3.4

Airside Operations
Ensure that all snow and ice equipment has an Aerobahn tracker installed and properly labeled,
and that the trackers are visible in Aerobahn throughout the winter weather event.
Strengths
Strength 1: The Snow Desk reviewed all equipment and ensured that they were visible in
Aerobahn and worked to remedy the equipment that did not show up.
Critical Task 3.5

Airside Operations
Test all equipment in E-tower to ensure that it is operational during the winter weather event.  
Strengths
Strength 1: The Snow Desk tested all equipment in their area.
Strength 2: Although faulty equipment was found, the Snow Desk was able to replace the items
and maintain full functionality.
Critical Task 3.6

Airside Operations

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The Snow Desk will relay important information to the EOC and ensure data is tracked
appropriately through logistical software such as Aerobahn, GoogleDocs, and ASOCS
throughout the winter weather event.
Strengths
Strength 1: Throughout the exercise, the Snow Desk monitored activity on Aerobahn, logged
information into ASOCS, and relayed information to the EOC.
Critical Task 3.7

Landside Operations
Monitor Landside areas to include predetermined HOTSPOTS, roadways, curbsides, crosswalks,

terminals, concourses, parking decks, the Ground Transportation Center, the Rental Car Center,
and other areas for any impacts to operations within 20 minutes of BEGINEX. 
Strengths
Strength 1: Landside Operations communicated impacts to the EOC within the timeframe
specified.
Strength 2: Communication about HOTSPOTS was organized and effective.
Critical Task 3.8

Landside Operations
Validate winter weather training to include Kubota operations and route familiarization
throughout the winter weather event.  
Strengths
Strength 1: Landside Operations conducted route familiarization activities and reviewed their
individual responsibilities.

Area for Improvement 1: In the area of equipment, Landside Operations operates and oversees
the functionality of a Kubota for the purposes of snow/ice removal.
Reference: Winter Weather Operations Manual
Analysis: The Kubota was out of service during the exercise.
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Critical Task 3.9

Landside Operations
Ensure working functionality of all Winter Weather reporting systems (GoogleDocs) throughout
the winter weather event. 
Strengths
Strength 1: The reporting system of GoogleDocs was used throughout the exercise.
Strength 2: Other systems were also tested or utilized by Landside Operations throughout the
exercise.
Critical Task 3.10

Ensure that all snow and ice response vehicles are operational and pre-staged for the winter
weather event prior to the first operational period. 
Strengths
Strength 1: Equipment was pre-staged prior to the first operational period of the exercise.

Area for Improvement 1: In the area of equipment, Facilities Management should begin
maintenance on all snow and ice removal equipment in the summer to ensure they are ready for
the winter weather season.
Reference: Winter Weather Operations Manual Section 1.1
Analysis: During the exercise, the Facilities Management Airside team had a critical piece of
equipment break as it entered the airfield.
Critical Task 3.11

Ensure that all snow and ice response vehicles are operational and pre-staged for the winter
weather event prior to the first operational period. 

21
Strengths
Strength 1: Equipment was pre-staged prior to the first operational period of the exercise.
Critical Task 3.12

Ensure all DOA and leased facilities have the necessary level of utilities service to support
continued operations throughout the winter weather event.
Strengths
Strength 1: The Facilities Management Landside team ensured that all facilities met the
necessary level of utilities service throughout the exercise.
Strength 2: The Facilities Management Landside team responded to an inject in the EOC where
the EOC lost power in a quick and efficient manner.
Critical Task 3.13

Fleet Management and Procurement Teams will send continuous updates on available critical
snow and ice supplies and their status to the EOC.
Strengths
Strength 1: A member of the Facilities Management team posted information on WebEOC
throughout the exercise.

Area for Improvement 1: In the area of training, Department of Aviation staff should have
accounts within WebEOC and know how to use the program during incidents and events.
Reference: N/A
Analysis: When uploading documents into WebEOC, the files were uploaded under the wrong
category, causing them to be unable to be opened.

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Critical Task 3.14

Fleet Management and Procurement Teams will ensure that the wireless deicing fluid sensors are
functional prior to the first operational period.
Strengths
Strength 1: The Facilities Management team checked the wireless deicing fluid sensors prior to
the exercise and are monitoring their functions.

Area for Improvement 1: In the area of equipment, the equipment used during snow and ice
events should be checked and deemed operable prior to the winter weather season.
Reference: N/A
Analysis: The Wireless Deicing Fluid Sensors were inoperable during the exercise due to a
software issue.
Critical Task 3.15

Support service will send continuous updates on the status of critical snow and ice equipment to
the EOC on an hourly basis. 
Strengths
Strength 1: Information was sent to their EOC representative throughout exercise.

Area for Improvement 1: In the area of exercise, the ICS 205 for Radio Communication should
be clear and concise so that all players know what channel speak on.
Reference: N/A
Analysis: When reporting information to the EOC, some participants were confused as to what
channel to communicate on as the ICS 205 had confusing wording. As a result, some information
was not fully relayed to the EOC.

23
Critical Task 3.16

Ensure prepared public information is accurate, constant, and timely prior to the first operational
period, and until the airport returns to normal operations.
Strengths
Strength 1: The Communications & Public Affairs team disseminated appropriate and timely
information through various channels such as social media, phone conversations with media, and
website updates.
Critical Task 3.17

Draft documentation that would be utilized to keep the media informed to stay ahead of and
control the narrative prior to the first operational period, and until the airport returns to normal
operations.
Strengths
Strength 1: Documentation was prepared and modified to address the specifics of the situation
to inform the public and stay ahead of the story by controlling the narrative.
Critical Task 3.18

Prepare communications that would alert the public and media of return to normal operations.
Strengths
Strength 1: The Communications & Public Affairs team prepared messaging for various
communication channels to inform the public that normal operations will resume.

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CONCLUSION
Overall, this exercise was a success. One of the biggest issues was communication throughout
the exercise. The ICS 205 was confusing on the verbiage used, so players were not sure which of
the channels they were supposed to use. Many players were unfamiliar and not as comfortable
with WebEOC. There should be more airport-wide training on WebEOC so that all stakeholders
are both familiar, and comfortable with the platform. Also, communication into the EOC was
slow to be established, so work needs to be done on ensuring efficient and timely communication
between the EOC and on-scene units.
This was one of the first exercises at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport where a
Simulation Cell was fully utilized and staffed. The SimCell was well utilized by providing
injects throughout the exercise, and fielding calls by representing agencies that were not playing
in this exercise. However, more work needs to be done in ensuring that injects are realistic and
make sense in the scope of the exercise scenario. One way this issue can be corrected is by
ensuring we have the right people on the exercise planning committee who will speak up and
represent the viewpoints and experiences of their areas.
The virtual aspect of the exercise functioned well. The use of Zoom and visual presentations
from Emergency Management and the National Weather Service allowed participants to have a
clearer understanding of the exercise scenario. There was a good variety of participants on the
winter weather calls, including multiple airline and cargo carriers, concessionaires, business
units, and local government entities. This shows a viable way to host winter weather calls in the
future.
Limitations can be found throughout this exercise. A lack of exercise feedback from participants
hindered the AAR-IP process for this exercise and a better way to collect more varied feedback
needs to happen. A lack of full participation in the planning process led to confusing scenario
points and injects and is something that should be remedied for future exercises. Finally, a need
to bring in other business units to practice further winter weather response in those areas is
crucial to training all airport stakeholders and observing the actual areas of improvement for
winter weather events.

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Appendix A: IMPROVEMENT PLAN
Primary
Issue/Area for Capability Organization Completion
Critical Task Corrective Action Responsible Start Date
Improvement Element1 POC Date
Organization
There was no There should be a
additional EOC solid EOC staffing
staffing outlined list set in place and
Critical Task 1.2: Create an for future available on the Q
EOC organizational chart that operational Drive that outlines Department of
aligns with the established periods beyond pre-set EOC teams Aviation Bureau of
the two Planning Kent Studnicka 02/01/2022 11/16/2022
operational periods to cover a for multiple Emergency
3-day event prior to the first operational operational periods Management
operational period. periods run based off of those
during the day of who are trained for
the operational specific positions
event. within the EOC.
During the Airside Operations
exercise, one of should work on a
the Airside training that Ensures
Critical Task 1.13: Coordinate Operations Staff that new employees
airfield escorts for snow and members was Department of
have a strong
ice removal with Airside following the Training Aviation Airside Darrin Barth 02/01/2022 11/16/2022
understanding of
Operations throughout the strike team Operations
their roles and
winter weather event. instead of responsibilities prior
leading them as to winter weather
an escort. season.
1
Capability Elements are: Planning, Organization, Equipment, Training, or Exercise.
Improvement Plan Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
A-1
Primary
Organization
Some
information that
should be
presented on the
winter weather
calls by Facilities Facilities
Management Management should
were not review their Winter
Critical Task 1.16: Using discussed, such Weather Manual and
weather updates from the as, contacting ensure that the
NWS and GDOT, within 24 vendors about information in there
Department of
hours of a known event, crews materials on is what is acted upon
Planning Aviation Facilities Darryl Miller 02/01/2022 11/16/2022
will outline staffing levels for hand. during snow and ice
Management
the coordination and events. Or they
management for pretreatment should edit the
application. The information manual to reflect
they should their response prior to
discuss comes the next winter
from the weather season.
Facilities
Management
Winter Weather
Manual.
The battle Emergency
Critical Task 2.2: Implement a rhythm was not Management should
formal planning cycle for both implemented implement a plan on Department of
operational periods by within the first conducting more Aviation Bureau of
establishing and disseminating 20 minutes of the Training Kent Studnicka 02/01/2022 11/16/2022
regular training on Emergency
a battle rhythm in accordance event, and it was creating and Management
with the Planning P within 20 developed with establishing a battle
minutes of the exercise. limited scope. rhythm.
Critical Task 2.3: Process The Resource Emergency Planning Department of Kent Studnicka 02/01/2022 11/16/2022
resource requests through the Request Board in Management should & Aviation Bureau of
A-2
Primary
Organization
established avenues outlined WebEOC was create a plan for how Training Emergency
in the airport’s modified ICS inoperable during stakeholders must Management
structure throughout the the exercise, so formally request
winter weather event. the EOC did not resources and create a
formally process backup plan.
the limited
resource requests All stakeholders
that they should then be
received. trained in the proper
processes for
resource requests.
Although the
Communications
and Public
Affairs team Emergency
submitted Management should
Critical Task 2.4: Utilize information into conduct training on
WebEOC, they Department of
WebEOC to ensure all units how to use WebEOC
first defaulted to Aviation Bureau of
are aware of all outgoing during events and Training Kent Studnicka 02/01/2022 11/16/2022
other methods of Emergency
communication throughout all everyday operations,
message Management
operational periods. and reimplement
dissemination quarterly WebEOC
due to a lack of drills.
familiarization
and training on
WebEOC.
During the
Critical Task 3.2: Establish a Emergency
exercise, the
demobilization plan to include Management should
Emergency Department of
parameters for returning to create a training on
Operations Aviation Bureau of
normal operations (e.g., how and when to Training 11/16/2022
Center did not Emergency Kent Studnicka 02/01/2022
returning equipment to a state create demobilization
create a Management
of readiness) by the end of the plans, and ensure that
demobilization
first operational period. during EOC
plan during
A-3
Primary
Organization
either of the two activations and
operational training, that
periods. demobilization plans
are practiced and
utilized.
Landside Operations
Critical Task 3.8: Validate
The Kubota was should ensure that all
winter weather training to
out of service of their winter Department of
include Kubota operations and
during the weather equipment is Equipment Aviation Landside Chris Warner 02/01/2022 11/16/2022
route familiarization
exercise. functional prior to the Operations
throughout the winter weather
start of the winter
event.
weather season.
During the
exercise, the Facilities
Facilities Management Airside
Critical Task 3.10: Ensure that
Management should ensure that all Department of
all snow and ice vehicles are
Airside team has of their winter Aviation Facilities
operational and pre-staged for Equipment Darryl Miller 02/01/2022 11/16/2022
a critical piece of weather equipment is Management –
the winter weather event prior
equipment break functional prior to the Airside
to the first operational period.
as it entered the start of the winter
airfield. weather season.
When uploading
documents to Emergency
WebEOC, the Management should
Critical Task 3.13: Fleet
files were conduct training on
Management and Procurement Department of
uploaded under how to use WebEOC
Teams will send continuous Aviation Bureau of
the wrong during events and Training Kent Studnicka 02/01/2022 11/16/2022
updates on available critical Emergency
category, causing everyday operations,
snow and ice supplies and Management
them to be and reimplement
their status to the EOC.
unable to be quarterly WebEOC
opened. drills.
Critical Task 3.14: Fleet The Wireless Facilities Department of

Equipment Darryl Miller 02/01/2022 11/16/2022
Management and Procurement Deicing Fluid Management Aviation Facilities
A-4
Primary
Organization
Teams will ensure that the Sensors were Administration Management –
wireless deicing fluid sensors inoperable during should ensure that all Administration
are functional prior to the first the exercise due of their winter
operational period. to a software weather equipment is
issue. functional prior to the
start of the winter
weather season.
When reporting
to the EOC,
some participants
were confused as
to what channel Emergency
Critical Task 3.15: Support
to communicate Management should
service will send continuous Department of
on, as the ICS ensure they are
updates on the status of Aviation Bureau of
205 had creating clearer Exercise Kent Studnicka 02/01/2022 11/16/2022
critical snow and ice Emergency
confusing communications
equipment to the EOC on an Management
wording. As a plans during
hourly basis.
result, some exercises.
information was
not fully relayed
to the EOC.
This IP has been developed specifically for Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport as a result of Big Bird on Ice 2021
conducted November 29, 2021 – December 1, 2021.

A-5
After-Action Report/Improvement Plan (AAR/IP)
APPENDIX B: EXERCISE PARTICIPANTS

Participating Organizations
Federal
National Weather Service (NWS)
State
Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT)
Local
Atlanta Fire Rescue Division
Atlanta-Fulton County Emergency Management Agency
Atlanta Police Department
Department of Aviation
Airport Operations
ATL Enforcement
Automated People Mover (APM)
Commercial Development
Communications and Public Affairs
Concessions
Customer Service
Executive Staff
Facilities & Asset Management
Ground Transportation
ParkATL
Planning & Development (P&D)
Properties
Safety & Security
Strategic Planning
Contractors
Atlanta Airlines Terminal Corporation (AATC)
TBI Airport Management
Airlines
Amazon
Asiana Airlines
Delta Airlines
Endeavor Air
Korean Air
Lufthansa
Lufthansa Cargo AG
Southwest Airlines
Exercise Participants Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
B-1
After-Action Report/Improvement Plan (AAR/IP)
Spirit Airlines
Turkish Airlines
United Airlines
Concessions
Airport Retail Management
Areas USA
Concessions H&H
Delaware North
Duty Free Americas
Georgia Airport Concessions
Exercise Participants Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

B-2
APPENDIX C: EXERCISE FEEDBACK
Strongly Strongly
Assessment Factor Disagree Unsure Agree
Disagree Agree
Overall Exercise Design
The exercise was well structured and organized. 0% 0% 31% 15% 54%
The exercise scenario was plausible and realistic. 8% 8% 15% 23% 46%
The Exercise Plan (ExPlan) used during the exercise was a
0% 8% 8% 38% 46%
valuable tool throughout the exercise.
Exercise Participants included the right people in terms of level
8% 0% 0% 46% 46%
and mix of disciplines.
Exercise participation was appropriate for someone in my field
0% 0% 8% 31% 61%
with my level of experience/training.
The exercise increased my understanding about and familiarity
with the capabilities and resources of other participating 8% 8% 23% 23% 38%
organizations.
The exercise provided the opportunity to address significant
0% 15% 0% 54% 31%
decisions in support of critical mission areas.
After this exercise, I am better prepared to deal with the
0% 0% 24% 38% 38%
capabilities and hazards addressed.
Winter Weather Call Design
This portion of the exercise was well structured and organized. 0% 0% 18% 36% 46%
Exercise Feedback Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

C-1
The multimedia presentation helped the participants understand

0% 9% 18% 27% 46%
and become engaged in the scenario.
The platform used for the Winter Weather Calls in this exercise
0% 0% 0% 36% 64%
will be appropriate for future calls.
Operational Exercise Design
This portion of the exercise was well structured and organized. 0% 9% 36% 19% 36%
The injects provided during exercise play helped my team assess
0% 18% 9% 46% 27%
our strengths and weaknesses.
The Simulation Cell provided realistic feedback when
representing partner agencies who were not playing in the 0% 9% 36% 19% 36%
operational exercise.
I observed the following strengths during this exercise:

Equipment staging process was improved
Because the scenario is so relevant to the actual experiences at the Airport, this was a powerful simulation and allowed all parties to hear the level of detail
necessary for an organization of this size manage effectively for excellence in safety, communication and a reduction of stress. The facilitators did a fantastic
job following the script and gave each stakeholder time to participate, ask questions and provide some real interaction.
The airside team worked really well together, everyone understood their roles and expectations, and information was communicated to the EOC smoothly
and effectively.
The later injects worked well and were very realistic.
We were able to interact with Airside Mtx in the snow desk to move resources based on injects. Having someone at the snow desk is very useful.
Aerobahn was very useful/helpful.
Structure of Organization and Planning
robust simulation cell for the first half of the exercise
• Injects regarding activities not necessarily related to winter weather (equipment failures, accidents, bird strike response, etc.) were great to show the
complexity of managing the airfield during an event. Also, the coincidental real-world Alert 3 (hot brakes) that occurred on Twy L and T helped round-out the
overall exercise.
• The increased frequency of Airside briefings (every half-hour vs hour) were beneficial for the overall event management perspective. Because other
divisions’ (landside operations, mtx, parking, ground transportation, etc) operations are so dependent on efficient aircraft operations (arrivals, departures),
C-2
frequent Airside briefings are paramount to stay on top of the event (projections, resources required, etc).
• Communication of airfield activities improved as the event progressed
• Having intermittent input from the Evaluators/Observers helped hone procedures in real-time versus waiting until the hotwash where they would then need
to be practices or could have been potentially forgotten all together.
-The EOC had pre-staged all applicable plans
-The use of the new ArgGIS Winter Weather dashboard for visibility of resources
Number of participants and engagement with stakeholders.
Teams knowledge
Using the different forms
Airfield participants were able to practice their operations and response
Good participation on the calls and during the exercise
I observed the following areas that need improvement during this exercise:
Roles and responsibilities NOT well defined and communicated
The lack of participation (apathy) is a concern and warrants a written letter of warning from the GM. Additionally, I would have liked for the opportunity to
have an know before attending how valuable this would be. While participating, I realized I needed three others to join me in this exercise so we collectively
would be able to accelerate and execute after the experience. We need floor Captain's, We need Telephone Logs, We need Blast Texting to our Associates
and Managers, We need to be alert and prepared.
We started off the event at a temp that was below where we would anti-ice, but we wanted to let Mtx practice this application, so we did it anyways. It took
away from some of the realism though.
Unsure of what was to kickstart the event. In the past, we have had TBI call and say DAL wanted to deice at the pads or that the temps dropped to 34
degrees at the surface. There was no indicator as to when the event would start.
Instructed to put everything out over Event 1 on the radio, but who from the EOC was to respond? Mtx moved some of their teams to Event 2 half way
through the event which was a good thing because it reduced radio chatter.
Maintenance needs a better understanding of proper snow removal techniques. They had 2 teams: One team comprised of plows and the other team
comprised of brooms. The brooms team went before the plows team, which directly contradicts the FAA recommended winter weather removal techniques
and would have been most ineffective in removing snow from the runway during a real snow event.
It’s difficult for the Ops teams to relay any FICON info unless it is made up prior to the event. Going forward they should consider some sort of script to go off
of.
1) Maintenance of snow treatment equipment. 2) Staffing assignments put on SharePoint so Ops knows who to call on the radio.
more participation for the sim cell as the second half of the exercise significantly lacked in sim cell participation
• Beginning of exercise was confusing and seemed to start abruptly vs. real event where we would more than likely be present before treatment would be
necessary (I was not apart of planning or pre-event call).
• It was sometimes difficult to decipher between the training scenario and real world when receiving information/injects, communicating with others, and trying
to immerse oneself in a scenario/simulation role.
C-3
• Not all injects were not disseminated through the entire communication pathway (simcell to airfield, airfield to snow desk, snow desk to EOC), leaving
briefings incomplete.
• Difficult to monitor radio with noise in EOC without disrupting the operation- bluetooth headsets/earpieces would be beneficial if that is possible with 800mhz
radio
• Unclear which ICS forms were necessary/required. Also, how to fill them out appropriately.
• Information about airline cancellations was difficult to ascertain; possibly easier with FAA rep in the snow desk as with a real-world event would
• Having a written staffing/equipment report would help with situational awareness, resource allocation and potential staffing projections throughout the event.
ICS 204 was eventually filled out, but just a simple chart would potentially be more effective.
• Some injects were unrealistic which reduced the validity of the exercise. For example, a report of contaminants at numerous intersections simultaneously
(A3, A5, R7, R11 and Ramp 6) on a portion of the airfield that was really not being focused on (ie South Complex was the meat and potatoes of the
exercise). Typically, reports of excessive contaminants on surfaces come in one or two at a time. Having more realistic injects would bolster the simulation.
-Better communication is needed between the EOC sections.
Better communication of real-time events between on scene units and EOC units.
All business units need to participate
When giving the briefing, both shifts should have been in the in the room.
Injects were confusing, simulated calls were not always determined to be real or simulated resulting in time waisted to investigate the nature of the call.
Need to provide a better idea of how the exercise will be kicked off in the future. Providing participants to the EOC, planning team, and simcell, in addition to
exercise players was taxing and lowered the number of our staff that were able to participate in the training.
What specific training opportunities helped you (or could have helped you) prepare for this exercise. Please provide specific course
names if applicable.
equipment trainings
The art of listening was the most beneficial. Not having much to contribute was actually a good thing. I cannot name the specific courses. What I can tell
you, as a concessionaire with so many people and facilities to supervise, I need to be more prepared and able to lead my business leaders through all crisis,
regardless of the event. Your exercise helped inspire me to change my focus.
Airside Operation's annual Winter Weather Training in October, my familiarity with FAA Advisory Circular 150/5200-30D, and referencing FAR Part 139.313.
Airside Operations Winter Weather Training and Airside Operations NOTAM Training
overview of the Winter Weather Plan
A "mini" tabletop with essential EOC players just before the full exercise would have helped refresh/review policies, procedures, etc.
-ICS forms refresher training -IS2200 (Basic EOC Functions) -G2300 (Intermediate EOC Functions)
The evaluator training, HSEEP review during exercise preparation.
How the EOC uses Web EOC

C-4
The Planning section training materials.

Our Part 139 training reviews all of our winter weather procedures in a classroom setting.
List the policies, plans, and procedures that should be reviewed, revised or developed (e.g. Winter Weather Operations Manual,
Emergency Operations Center Annex, Crisis Communications Plan).
communication plans
C4 reported ice on "Taxiway 10-28" during the exercise. This was a mix of a taxiway and the runway 28. Also, only one runway number should be used in
communication based on a West Operation or an East Operation.
Winter Weather Plan, EOC Evacuation Plan, Alternate EOC Location Plan, Snow Desk Sitreps
EOC Annex, EOC Position Checklists
WWOM and Crisis Comm. Plan
Operations uses Google Docs templates - did the EOC use them
The policies, plans, and procedures were good.
The WWOM and the Snow and Ice Control Plan are currently under revision.
Which exercise materials were most useful? Please identify any additional materials or resource that would have been useful.
SAMSARA
The advance Reading Material and the facilitator Reading of the Scenario was most beneficial. I know that sounds elementary, but properly understanding
the scenario and then listening to the interdepartmental responses was best for me.
Electronic tools such as Aerobahn, Snow Desk procedures, and seamless communication between parties.
I did not receive any exercise materials.
Exercise Plan, Snow Desk Sitrep template
Communication Plan
Beneficial: pre-staged winter weather plans in the EOC. Need: -Prefilled ICS forms
WWOM
GoogleDocs
EOC/Planning section check list
NWS participation was good - as always. The graphics they presented helped paint a better picture of the forecast.

C-5
Please provide any overall feedback or recommendations on how this exercise or future exercises could be improved regarding exercise
conduct?
Need more exercises
I recommend C4 sponsor the same scenario with the Concessions & RCC. In the exercise, a representative of AATC should represent their facility and
airline portion of the practice run. Note: Due to the Covid related shutdowns and forced turnover, we have more new managers and new employees in this
airport than in the last 10 years combined. As was evident in the Saturday November 20 Active Shooter Event, the management and employees, including
TSA and AATC/ABM employees did not know what to do. We need a required attendance practice session for "Big Bird on Ice"; “Active Shooter in
Skypointe”; “Medical Emergency on your concourse!”; “All Power Outage for 12+ hours!”. Thank you.
All parties conducted themselves professionally.
1)Realism of scenario- A) ATL will never had snow banks high enough for an aircraft to nearly hit, B) scenario included several aircraft that landed while the
runway was closed during snow removal. 2)Communication- A) could not discern actual Alert 3 and other calls from a scenario, consider using Codeword to
indicate an actual Alert. 3)Exercise Physical Boundary- A) Call for inspection of taxiways outside of the exercise's boundary of the South Complex were made
and do not add any value to the exercise if the response is not going to be real world.
good exercise overall, one of the best I have participated in during my tenure at the airport
Including more realistic injects that require multiple divisions to coordinate with one another would help simulate real-world training, especially in the
compressed exercise time. It sometimes felt like divisions were working in silos during the exercise, attempting to accomplish goals/problems solving without
effectively communicating their efforts to other divisions; evaluators could have fostered communication and coordinated efforts in real-time to ensure training
exercise was making full impact. Finally, having a highly experienced "coach" (could be evaluator or additional person) for each division to help guide
individuals, if necessary, during the event in the EOC, Snow Desk(s), and in the field would help the overall training.
Excellent use of the simcell! It was very useful to play with real-time injects. Many stated they do not get to operate in the EOC often and suggested more
opportunities to practice specific positions.
Time frame is not appropriate. Needs to be earlier in the year, not around the busiest travel days of the year.
Overall, the exercise was good. Thanks!
The constraints of the exercise often are at odds with training staff to prepare for their duties during a winter weather event. For instance, Maintenance gets
the most benefit from running all of their equipment and equipment operators, but the scenario may not allow for that. It is also difficult to simulate an airfield
event for the exercise, when only one runway is closed. We may be better served running just a tabletop exercise for winter weather because there are more
possibilities available and we are able to concentrate more on the decision making aspects. We can do practical training to exercise the equipment and give
the operators practice that is separate from the tabletop. Having pre-selected injects also did not allow ad lib injects driven by the exercise flow. Some of
injects were not applicable because of decisions that were made earlier in the exercise.

C-6

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Big Bird on Ice 2021

After-Action Report/Improvement Plan

Exercise Overview Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

November 29, 2021 1430-1600

This exercise is a Functional Exercise focusing on winter weather

Mission Area(s) Response & Recovery

Planning, Operational Coordination, Health & Safety, Critical

On Friday, November 26, the National Weather Service releases

Sponsor Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)

Participants are from multiple Department of Aviation business units as

Exercise Overview Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Exercise Overview Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

The following objectives were developed for the exercise:

Exercise Overview Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Exercise Overview Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Table 1. Summary Objective Performance

Exercise Overview Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Critical Task 1.1

Critical Task 1.2

Areas for Improvement

Exercise Overview Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Critical Task 1.3

Critical Task 1.4

Critical Task 1.5

Exercise Overview Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Critical Task 1.6

Critical Task 1.7

Critical Task 1.8

Critical Task 1.9

Critical Task 1.10

Critical Task 1.11

Critical Task 1.12

Exercise Overview Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Critical Task 1.12

Critical Task 1.13

Areas for Improvement

Critical Task 1.14

Exercise Overview Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Critical Task 1.15

Critical Task 1.16

Areas for Improvement

Critical Task 1.17

Exercise Overview Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Critical Task 1.18

Critical Task 1.19

Critical Task 1.20

Exercise Overview Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Critical Task 1.21

Exercise Overview Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Critical Task 2.1

Critical Task 2.2

Areas for Improvement

Critical Task 2.3

Areas for Improvement

Critical Task 2.4

Areas for Improvement

Exercise Overview Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport