Miami International Airport Conducts Full-Scale Emergency Preparedness Drill

U.S. Marshal will control the situation, possibly neutralizing the suspect. In such cases, multiple people could be injured, and passengers may flee the aircraft,” explained Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Capt. Leonel Reyes.

Students from Miami Springs Senior High School played the role of passengers, evacuating the aircraft and simulating injuries to enhance realism. The exercise assessed coordination and communication among the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, and MIA officials.

“It’s critical for everyone to understand that working together daily is essential,” said Miami-Dade Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz.

Efficient emergency response is vital, whether dealing with an unruly passenger, a plane crash, or a fire. With recent aviation incidents heightening public concern, officials stressed the importance of regular drills to uphold safety.

“A great example is the Red Air crash on our runway three years ago. Our fire department responded in half the FAA-required time, extinguishing the fire and saving 140 lives. This success stems from continuous training and exercises like this,” Cutié highlighted.

FAA evaluators were on-site, using checklists and ride-alongs to ensure agencies met emergency response standards.

In collaboration with Miami-Dade Fire Rescue and the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, MIA conducted this full-scale exercise at Concourse J from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. The event was announced via MIA’s official X Account to keep the public informed.

These triennial emergency preparedness drills enable MIA to uphold high safety standards, refine response protocols, and ensure swift, effective management of major incidents, ultimately protecting passengers and staff.