Palm Springs Airport Simulates Emergency Drill Wednesday

PALM SPRINGS, CA—Travelers noticed a large number of emergency responders in and around the airport Wednesday amid the Palm Springs International Airport's emergency simulation drill. According to Mayor Jeffrey Bernstein, the PSP airport staff and personnel planned to conduct a full-scale emergency exercise on Wednesday. The exercise is crucial to the city's combined emergency response capabilities.

The airport conducts emergency safety drills every three years, as mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration.

''This comprehensive exercise strengthens the collaboration between local agencies and our airport,'' Bernstein said in a statement. ''Training together in this controlled environment ensures we are always prepared for real emergencies with confidence.''

The 3.5-hour drill began at approximately 8:30 a.m. Wednesday. According to an airport spokesperson, it includes a simulated scenario involving a crashed aircraft. PSP spokesman Jake Ingrassia said.

"This drill is designed to be comprehensive and inclusive, going above what is required by the FAA to engage all facets of the airport operation," Ingrassia said.

Travelers need not be concerned, according to Ingrassia. The exercise will not affect regular flight schedules and airport functions.

Although personnel will be dedicated to making sure the Palm Springs International Airport can operate as usual, the safety event will still involve participants who would be working in a real emergency, he said.

This includes operations staff, administration, first responders, law enforcement, airlines, tenants, and other city staff., he said. ''This wide-ranging participation helps to strengthen interagency coordination and improve the overall emergency response capabilities of the airport."