Avoca, PA (October 5, 2023) – The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport will be holding a Live Major Aircraft Accident Response Exercise on Tuesday, October 10, 2023. The exercise will take place between the hours of 8:30 AM and 11:00 AM on Airport property.
Eric McKitish, Director – Marketing, Communications & Air Service Development, stated, “The drill will test the Airport Accident Response Plan, demonstrate the ability of the communities to deal effectively with aircraft disasters and provide disaster training for Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighters and supporting agencies.” This exercise will also fulfill the Federal Aviation Administration Regulation Part 139, which requires airports to conduct a major live disaster exercise every three years.
Denise Price, Assistant Director – Public Safety, stated, “The drill will involve airport fire fighters, emergency fire and medical equipment from many of the surrounding communities.” Price also stated that key community agencies will also be involved, such as Emergency Medical Services of Northeastern Pennsylvania, the Lackawanna and Luzerne County Emergency Management Agencies and Communication Centers, and the American Red Cross.
The public is advised – every effort will be exerted to make the drill as realistic as possible. The use of fire, police and ambulance sirens will not be cause for alarm.
The drill will have no effect on airline operations. All flights will operate as scheduled. Any questions regarding this exercise should be directed to the Airport’s Public Safety Office at 570-602-2022.
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