Airport seeks funding to add three full‑time ARFF firefighters as FAA index requirements increase

Provo Airport staff and the Fire Department presented a proposal Sept. 23 to add three full‑time aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF) positions to provide continuous ARFF Index C coverage as airline operations expand.

Airport director (presenter) said passenger growth has accelerated since the new terminal opened and that Breeze Airways’ network expansion will increase operations. The airport currently staffs one full‑time ARFF vehicle/crew and supplements a second position with trained airport operations staff and periodic overtime from the city’s fire department. City and fire leaders said that approach will not meet Index C requirements when service increases; Index C requires two ARFF vehicles and two firefighters per vehicle on duty with regulated FAA response times while flights operate.

Fire Chief Hedman (identified in the presentation) described operational advantages of three additional, dedicated firefighters (one per shift) stationed at the airport: consistent 24‑hour coverage, improved operational familiarity with airport layouts and aircraft, reduced overtime pressure on the main fire department and fewer scheduling conflicts between departments. Chief Hedman said dedicated staff will also reduce repetitive cross‑training costs because fewer off‑duty personnel will need recurrent ARFF training.

Airport staff requested council authorization to appropriate $158,396 from the airport operations fund balance to cover first‑year personnel, equipment (personal protective equipment, radios and other ARFF gear), and recurrent training. Director said the airport’s operating fund had a revenue surplus in FY25 and that the appropriation would come from those surplus funds; staff said the airport is self‑supporting and the appropriation would not draw on the city general fund.

Council members asked about living quarters and station readiness at the airport; staff said a dedicated space will be available after a new Snow Removal Equipment building is completed and that some interior remodel work will follow to make a proper 24‑hour station. Councilors also asked whether the three hires would be new headcount (yes) or transfers; city staff said three new firefighters will be hired and trained. Staff said the appropriation will return to council for formal vote on the coming regular meeting agenda (the presentation day indicated a two‑week lead before final action).

Why it matters: sustained airline growth changes safety staffing obligations; Index C requirements are an FAA regulatory threshold that governs ARFF response expectations. Adding dedicated ARFF firefighters changes department staffing and budget plans and would increase on‑site capacity for airport incidents.

What happens next: staff will return with the formal appropriation ordinance and details on implementation, including equipment purchases, training schedule and station remodel plans.