The Comprehensive Process of Handling Airline Accidents

🛫Most fatal aircraft accidents are not catastrophic, and the majority of passengers survive.

🔥Runway accidents account for more than 90% of accidents but only 25% of fatal accidents.

📞Communication is a crucial aspect of the response to accidents, with dedicated teams for crisis communication.

💼Airlines have go-teams in place to handle the crisis response, including crisis support, humanitarian support, and communications.

👥Passenger and family assistance centers are set up to provide support and information to affected individuals.

What is the first priority of airlines in the event of an accident?

—The first priority is to mobilize their go-teams and initiate the crisis response plan.

What is the role of the go-team in airline accidents?

—The go-team consists of individuals who are trained to handle crisis response in addition to their regular job responsibilities. They provide support in crisis, humanitarian, and communication aspects.

How do airlines handle communication after an accident?

—Airlines establish dedicated communication go-teams to disseminate accurate and timely information to the media, survivors, and family and friends of passengers.

What are passenger and family assistance centers?

—These centers are set up to accommodate and support affected individuals, providing updates, reunification services, and psychological assistance.

How do airlines manage crisis communication?

—Airlines strategically plan their communication approach to minimize reputation damage and control the narrative surrounding the incident.

00:00Commercial airline accidents are relatively rare and often not catastrophic.

01:36In the event of an accident, airlines activate go-teams comprised of crisis response experts.

02:37The go-team ensures coordination and support for various aspects, including crisis, humanitarian, and communication.

03:31The first responders to an accident are typically firefighters and emergency personnel.

06:01Airlines set up passenger and family assistance centers to provide support and information to affected individuals.

07:01Crisis communications play a crucial role in managing the aftermath of an accident.

08:55Airlines face challenges in deciding whether to accept or defer blame after an incident.

09:59Southwest Airlines' response to an accident showcased the importance of effective crisis communication.