For Immediate Release

The Tucson Airport Authority (TAA) will be conducting a Triennial Full-Scale Emergency Exercise on February 25, 2026, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. This exercise is a required every three years by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to ensure the Airport remains fully prepared to respond to aircraft emergencies at Tucson International Airport (TUS). 

What to Expect

• The exercise will include a simulated aircraft incident scenario to test the response capabilities of airport personnel and first responders, as well as support from our mutual aid partners.  In addition, Delta Air Lines will test their Family Assistance and Reunification Plan.

• There will be volunteer role players, including personnel from the airlines.

• During the exercise, regular airport operations will continue in the terminal and on the airfield.

• Media is invited to attend. Please RSVP to [email protected]. Media will stage at the TAA fire station (2821 E Airport Dr, Tucson, AZ 85756) at 8am. We will be escorted onto the airfield at 8:30am promptly for viewing of the emergency drill.

• The TAA recently received two new firefighting trucks as we move away from PFAS containing fire-fighting foam. These new trucks are also available for media viewing on February 25^th.

• TAA President/CEO Danette Bewley will be available for comment at the drill site.