CHO Airport Department of Public Safety
The Charlottesville–Albemarle Airport Department of Public Safety is a full-service law enforcement and fire/rescue agency dedicated to protecting the airport community and the traveling public. Our officers provide 24/7 public safety services, combining professional law enforcement, emergency medical response, and Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) capabilities to ensure safe airport operations.
Police Services
Airport Public Safety Officers are sworn law enforcement professionals responsible for maintaining safety and security throughout Charlottesville–Albemarle Airport. Officers patrol airport property, respond to emergencies, enforce laws and regulations, and work closely with airport staff, airlines, and federal partners.
Our officers receive ongoing training in law enforcement, emergency response, and aviation-specific safety procedures to ensure they are prepared to respond quickly and effectively to incidents at the airport.
The department is led by Chief Joseph “Joe” Smith.
Aircraft Rescue & Firefighting (ARFF)
Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) is a specialized form of emergency response focused on aircraft incidents on or near airport property. ARFF personnel are trained to respond to aircraft emergencies, mitigate hazards, assist with evacuations, and perform rescue operations involving passengers and crew.
As a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 139 certificated airport, Charlottesville–Albemarle Airport is required to maintain ARFF capabilities during commercial airline operations. Officers receive specialized ARFF training at advanced facilities using aircraft simulators that provide realistic live-fire emergency scenarios.
Community & Airport Partnerships
Safety at the airport is a shared responsibility. The Department of Public Safety works closely with airport tenants, airline partners, and regional public safety agencies to ensure coordinated and effective emergency response.
Partnerships with local law enforcement, fire/rescue departments, EMS providers, and federal agencies strengthen our ability to protect the airport and the surrounding community.
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Emergency Preparedness & Mutual Aid
Preparedness is essential to aviation safety. The Department of Public Safety conducts regular training and emergency exercises to ensure readiness for incidents that could impact airport operations.
These exercises involve mutual aid partners, emergency management agencies, hospitals, and other response organizations. Through strong coordination and planning, the department ensures that the resources and support necessary to manage complex emergencies are available when needed.
Message from the Chief
Welcome to the Charlottesville–Albemarle Airport Department of Public Safety website. Our mission is to provide professional police and fire/rescue services that ensure the safety of our airport community and the traveling public.
Our officers demonstrate our core values of integrity, professionalism, courage, and dedication in everything they do. I am honored to serve as Chief of Public Safety and proud of the commitment our officers show every day in protecting those who travel through and work at our airport.
Chief Joe Smith
