August 19, 2023- Palm Springs, CA – As the tropical storm approaches, Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) is taking proactive steps to ensure passenger safety and reduce disruptions. PSP requests that all passengers check with their respective airlines for the most up-to-date information concerning their flight status before they arrive at the airport.
“Our dedicated airport staff is fully prepared to meet the challenges of the impending tropical storm,” assured Harry Barrett, Executive Director of Aviation at PSP. “Their unwavering commitment to preparedness is evident as they activate our comprehensive storm event plan. With additional personnel on standby, tested backup systems, and meticulous safety measures in place, our team’s efforts underscore our determination to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers, staff, and operations throughout this storm.”
As PSP engages in comprehensive preparations to ensure passenger safety and operation of the facility during the approaching tropical storm, the public can be reassured of the airport’s steadfast commitment to storm preparedness. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that the unusual nature of this weather event introduces challenges that may not be entirely foreseeable. While maintaining a focus on passenger and staff safety and operation of the airport, PSP also recognizes the uniqueness of this situation for Palm Springs. The understanding and support of the public are greatly appreciated as the airport diligently navigates these rare circumstances.
It’s difficult to predict the exact number of canceled or delayed flights. However, with the impending storm, it’s anticipated that there will be several flight disruptions over the upcoming days. PSP emphasizes the importance of passengers checking their flight status directly with their respective airlines before departing for the airport, as airlines possess the latest and most accurate information.
PSP has activated its comprehensive storm event plan to ensure the safety of passengers, staff, and operations. The plan includes various measures such as calling in additional staff as needed, activating tested backup systems, and establishing plans to guarantee passenger and staff safety in case of power outages or other storm-related incidents. Additionally, all backup power generators have been tested and stand ready to provide power where required. To mitigate potential flooding concerns, thorough inspections and clearing of storm drains around the airfield, airport roadways, and terminal have been conducted. Sandbags have also been strategically placed as a preventive measure. Furthermore, items in outdoor areas that aren’t permanently secured have been secured or relocated.
The airport’s communication lines have been established with airport management and staff, Palm Springs Police Department, Palm Springs Fire Department, Palm Springs city leadership, and airline management. These lines will ensure continuous and effective communication throughout the storm, facilitating coordination and swift responses as needed.
Palm Springs International Airport remains committed to passenger and staff safety and operational excellence during adverse weather conditions.
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ABOUT PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) is owned and operated by the City of Palm Springs. It is the only commercial service airport in the Coachella Valley and is the closest airport to Joshua Tree National Park. The airport’s 11 air carriers provide nonstop service to more than 30 airports in season. US nonstop routes include Atlanta, Austin, Bellingham, Bend/Redmond, Boise, Chicago O’Hare, Dallas Love, Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, Des Moines, Eugene, Everett, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, New York City-JFK, Oakland, Phoenix, Portland, Reno, Sacramento, Salt Lake City, San Francisco, San Jose, Santa Rosa, and Seattle. Canadian nonstop routes include Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto, Vancouver, and Winnipeg. PSP is served by Air Canada, Alaska, Allegiant, Avelo, American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, Sun Country, United, and WestJet. Some airlines and routes operate on a seasonal basis. For additional information, please refer to flyPSP.com or get social with PSP on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/flyPSP), Twitter (@flyPSP), or Instagram (@flyPSP) to stay informed about the airport and the airlines that serve the Coachella Valley.
