In the event of an on-site emergency, RDU's Office of Marketing Communications (Marketing office) will work closely with the media to provide confirmed information. When an emergency occurs that will generate extensive media coverage, the following procedures will be put in place:

1. RDU will distribute a media advisory designating a media staging area. Media identification will be required for access to the media area and to the incident site. The Airport Authority will do its best to provide a working area for credentialed media. A communications representative will be located at the media staging area to assist media.

Reminder: The early minutes of an emergency situation are dedicated to the emergency response.

2. The Marketing Communications Manager will conduct periodic briefings as information becomes available. If an aircraft is involved, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will take over the investigation and be responsible for the release of information relevant to the investigation.

3. During an emergency situation, the Airport Authority spokesperson will provide only the following information:

--Date and time of incident
--Name of airline
--Type of aircraft and flight number
--Number of persons on board (if confirmed)
--Runway affected
--General description of incident
--Conditions at the scene of the incident
--Affect on airport operations

All other information pertaining to the incident will be provided by the airline or the appropriate federal or local agency.

4. Media will be escorted to the incident site once Airport officials have given approval. Only media displaying credentialed identification will be permitted an escort to the incident site or airport operating areas (runways, taxiways, etc.) Media must be escorted by authorized Airport personnel. Media access and movement may be restricted to allow a safe and orderly response to the incident.

5. In incidents not involving an aircraft, the Marketing office will coordinate the release of information and will provide all information related to airport operations and airport response. In some cases, questions will be referred to the appropriate federal or local agency or airline.

6. The Airport Authority’s first responsibility is to the passengers and their families’ right to privacy. Each individual will determine if they will be interviewed or photographed. The Airport Authority will support and enforce the passengers and family members’ decisions.

7. Media representatives will not resist, obstruct, oppose or interfere with law enforcement officers in the lawful execution of their duties.

8. In the case of aircraft incidents off airport property, a representative from the Marketing office will respond. A media staging area and time for the first media briefing will be scheduled.

9. For emergencies or events taking place on airport property, but not related to Airport operations, the Marketing Office will assist that agency with the dissemination of information as necessary.

Back to Media Guide