What does CAFS stand for in airport firefighting?

• A. Compressed Air Foam System
• B. Compressed Aqueous Foam System
• C. Chemical Air Foam System
• D. Carbonized Air Foam System

Answer: (A)

CAFS stands for Compressed Air Foam System, which is a firefighting technology that utilizes a mixture of water, foam concentrate, and air to create a highly effective firefighting agent. This system is advantageous in airport firefighting as it produces a foam that not only cools the fire but also smothers it, preventing re-ignition. The compressing of air into the foam enhances its operational effectiveness, allowing it to spread quickly and cover a larger area compared to traditional foam.

In the context of aviation emergencies, where fires can involve fuels that are challenging to extinguish, the use of CAFS offers significant benefits due to its ability to create a durable foam blanket that adheres to surfaces, provides excellent thermal protection, and effectively traps flammable vapors. This capability is essential for responding to incidents such as aircraft fires, where time and effectiveness are critical.

The other terms do not accurately describe the established technology used in firefighting. Only the Compressed Air Foam System is recognized for its sophisticated approach and practical application in fire suppression techniques specific to airports.