Duluth Airport Authority to Conduct Full-Scale Emergency Preparedness Exercise
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 20, 2025
PRESS CONTACT
Duluth Airport Authority
Natalie Baker, Director of Communications and Marketing
(218) 625-7768
nbaker@duluthairport.com
Duluth Airport Authority to Conduct Full-Scale Emergency Preparedness Exercise
Duluth, MN – The Duluth Airport Authority (DAA), in partnership with local and regional emergency response agencies, will conduct its triennial full-scale emergency exercise on June 5, 2025, from 4:00 to 9:00 pm. The FAA mandates this type of drill every three years under Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) part 139 which governs commercial airport certification and operational safety. The simulation will replicate a commercial aircraft incident, and will test interagency coordination, communication and on-the ground response capabilities.
“Safety is a top priority for the Duluth Airport Authority, and these exercises are critical to ensuring our preparedness for real-world emergencies,” said Tom Werner, Executive Director of the DAA. “We are grateful to our emergency partners for their collaboration in maintaining the highest standards of safety for our passengers, staff, airport tenants, and the community.”
Participating agencies include the DAA, FAA, TSA, FBI, United States Customs and Border Protection, 148th Fighter Wing ARFF, area fire and police departments, Mayo Ambulance Service, Life Link iii, the American Red Cross, Aspirus St. Lukes, Essentia Health and St. Louis County Rescue Squad.
This exercise will involve volunteers acting as passenger victims or concerned family members and friends, to simulate real world conditions and challenges. Community members interested in volunteering are encouraged to contact Matt Snell at msnell@duluthairport.com.
What the Public Should Know:
●While the exercise will include emergency vehicles and simulated injuries, there is no actual emergency - this is a drill.
●Airport operations will continue as normal
●Traffic notice: Emergency lights or sirens will not be active on public roadways as a result from this exercise.
The DAA encourages community awareness and understanding of the importance of this event. These types of exercises strengthen critical partnerships and improve real time decision-making during emergency situations.
For additional information, please contact:
Natalie Baker
Duluth Airport Authority
Director of Communications and Marketing nbaker@duluthairport.com
(218) 625-7768
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About the Duluth International Airport
Starting Jun 1, United Airlines will offer four daily nonstop flights to Chicago and Delta offers four daily nonstop flights to Minneapolis/St. Paul. We are committed to providing our travelers with superior services in a safe, secure and professional environment. Be sure to visit our Club DLH Business Suite, designed with the working traveler in mind. Visit duluthairport.com, follow us on X @DuluthAirport, and like us on facebook.com/duluthairport.
